Policies and Politics for an Aging America

Abstract

In “Facts and Fictions About an Aging America” (Contexts, Fall 2009), our research group unpacked a series of widely held, inter–related misconceptions about our aging population and outlined the broad societal implications of the realities. With the realities articulated and myths exposed, we can start to explore how policy–makers can effectively invest across the life course to create a successful aging society. We call for a new approach to aging–one that involves not only newpolicies, but also newways to think about aging in America. Both our reframing and subsequent policy proposals will increase the likelihood that the United States, as it ages, will become amore productive and equitable society.