Comparative national policies on care and support of older persons

This symposium focused on four developed nations: the US, Australia, Canada and Germany. Activities in each country were analysed along the following lines: What is the official policy with regard to income guarantees (national pension programs), medical care and/or medical insurance, long-term care and housing? How well are the policy goals expressed in legislation being met? What is the extent of variation in services across the country? What factors are associated with high and low levels of service? To what extent are these services viewed as universal entitlements vs. linked to welfare status? How are economic and demographic forecasts affecting discussions about the future of these programs?