This publication discusses the structural change of age composition in the future and its socio-economic implications; the changing family structure and the effect on the elderly; the work and social roles of the elderly; the quality of life and the provision of pension schemes, which are being gradually introduced; the provision of health services and role of the community in providing welfare services; and policies and programmes for the elderly as part of overall social context. The publication includes papers covering the various aspects of the position of the elderly and the programmes in place in the countries of the region