This book is part of the "Let's Pretend" series, which looks at social questions in a way which is designed to promote discussion among children. the text is complemented by a number of fictional, personal case studies, which have been taken out of copyright, so that they can be distributed in the classroom. Each chapter is rounded off with a short series of questions designed to help readers develop their own opinions on the subject discussed. In this volume, the author examines the provisions made for the elderly in the UK and the pressures put on society's resources by an ageing population. The roles of the family and the State in taking responsibility for the elderly are discussed. He describes the co-operation between "official" and voluntary organizations, such as the Social Services and Age Concern in caring for the old, outlines the various forms of accommodation available and looks at State provision in the form of pension schemes and the old age pension, comparing such provision with that existing in European States. The effects of the new 1986 Social Security Act upon the care facilities and allowances for the elderly are also discussed.
The book also examines society's attitude towards the older generation, questioning whether we need to be educated to cope with retirement and old age. It oulines the problems such as loneliness, illness and feelings of worthlessness, as well as describing the positive aspects of having increased leisure to discover new interests and potential, work on relationships with others and contribute positively to society's resources. Roger Halls, a former Head of English at a comprehensive school, now works as a full-time freelance writer and contributes to several national magazines. He is the author of "Let's Discuss Education" and "Thomas Hardy" in the "Great Writers" series.
- ISBN10 1852104414
- ISBN13 9781852104412
- Publish Date 13 July 1988
- Publish Status Out of Print
- Out of Print 21 April 2005
- Publish Country GB
- Publisher Hachette Children's Group
- Imprint Hodder Wayland
- Format Hardcover
- Pages 48
- Language English