Psychology and ageing in australia

Abstract

The study of psychology and ageing in Australia has a long history dating back to the pioneering work of Alan Welford, Elsie Harwood and George Naylor. Today, Australian psychologists are active in promoting the study of ageing both within Australia and internationally. However, despite this strong research record and the changes in the age-structure of the Australian population, the number of psychologists working with older people is relatively low. The current special issue provides a timely contribution to the field in this International Year of Older Persons. The articles represent a broad cross-section of the work being conducted in Australia and New Zealand and provide an opportunity for readers to reflect on the experience of ageing and the positive contributions made by our older citizens, We hope that the special issue also provides an impetus for young psychologists to consider a career in the field of gerontology.