Abstract. Is retiring early a way for older workers to cope with the stigma and discouragement of unemployment? A regression analysis using the National Longitudinal Survey sample of American men age 52–64 in 1973 shows that weeks of previous unemployment is significantly related to early retirement for both Black and White males. This relationship holds when controlling for social security and pension eligibility, assets, health limitations, family responsibilities, occupation, changes in the unemployment rate and urban residence. The results suggest that social policy concerning retirement prior to age 65 should take into account the important role of unemployment in pushing workers out of the labor force into early retirement.

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A measure of range of ability is used to profile the 85-years-old-and-older (oldest old) population, including the highly disabled institutional population. This new measure uses two new questions available in the 1990 Decennial Census concerning a self-care limitation and a mobility limitation as well as the usual question concerning a work limitation. In addition to examining the extent of disability among the oldest old, the article examines the extent of care potentially available in the household as well as the economic characteristics of this age group. It is also profiled in terms of relevant personal characteristics, including age, gender, marital status, race, ethnicity, rural residence, education, and employment. A key question addressed is the need for help or care among the oldest old and how various long-term care proposals would meet such needs. A careful analysis of this unique and growing population is necessary to both allay fears of the cost of care or help as well as to dispel stereotypes of this age group as frail and dependent, and in need of institutional care.