The Journal of Elder Policy (JEP) aims to offer a forum for innovative thinking, theorizing, program planning and empirical research relevant to elder policy. We seek to publish informative articles relevant to policies that enhance quality of life and well-being of older adults including the old- old. Why a new interdisciplinary journal about old age and policy? The study of age is thriving as the scientific community works to identify and study the changing circumstances and options in later life among new cohorts of older adults. The welfare of older adults is importantly influenced by social changes, including policy arrangements, impacting both the young and old. We seek to understand factors that shape family supports available to those with needs for medical and social care in late life. We will apply diverse disciplinary lenses to explore the social forces that shape elder policy and affect what care providers can offer and sustain.

Current policies and service programs to protect the growing old-old population are often inadequate to ensure a good old age. The organization and delivery of medical care poses major challenges to older adults with co-morbid conditions and disabilities. Income inequalities put low SES individuals at greater risks in old age. Strains on policy systems and inadequate resources limit care of the old-old population. But there is also great opportunity at hand as exemplified by technological advances and breakthroughs. We aim to call attention to these issues and propose improved policies that are informed by sound research in the US and around the world.

Table of Contents:

Introducing The Journal of Elder Policy During the Covid-19 Pandemic: Why Policies That Protect Older Adults Are MoreImportant Than EverEva Kahana PhD, Editor-in-Chief

Policy Does Matter: Changing an Unchangeable Long-Term Services SystemRobert Applebaum PhD, Matt Nelson PhD, Jane K. Straker PhD, & Katherine Kennedy MS

Life in a World for All Ages: From a Utopic Idea to a RealityLiat Ayalon PhD

Is There No Place For Us? The Psychosocial Challenges and Rewards of Aging With HIVCharles A. Emlet PhD & Mark Brennan-Ing PhD

Policy Challenges for Grandparents Caring for Grandchildren with DisabilitiesMadonna Harrington-Meyer PhD & Ynesse Abdul-Malak PhD

Restructuring Public Policy for Large Numbers of Elders Living with DisabilitiesJoanne Lynn MD & Nils Franco

Developing Age-Friendly Cities: Policy Opportunities and ChallengesChris Phillipson PhD & Tine Buffel PhD

Public Guardianship: Policy and PracticePamela B. Teaster PhD & Stephanie Chamberlain PhD