Explores the current condition of growing old in the United States. Includes the economic status of older people; Medicare and Medicaid; the living arrangements of older adults; working and retirement; and the education levels, voting trends, and political behavior of older Americans. Physical and mental health problems; drug and alcohol abuse; care for seniors; crime; and death and dying are also covered.

Covers various issues related to one's aging body, how diseases affect it, and treatment options, including medications, for said diseases for this population. Also includes topics specific to the aging population, but beyond descriptions of medical diagnoses.