Preretirement education programs can help people (1) to develop an awareness of issues which influence retirement satisfaction, (2) to gain information relevant to retirement planning, (3) to explore options available after retirement, (4) to identify resources for implementing preretirement plans, and (5) to identify community services for retired persons. Of the various models of preretirement education programs currently in use, the models that provide learner involvement seem to be most effective, particularly with regard to clarifying attitudes and exploring options. Important considerations in program implementation are target population, sponsorship, staffing, publicity and recruitment, meeting spaces and times, attendance of spouses, and fees. Program content varies, but generally includes orientation to the program and discussion aimed at examining characteristics and situations of older persons and an overview of the retirement process, physical health, nutrition, financial or estate planning, legal affairs, consumer education, housing and living arrangements, income maintenance, and use of leisure time. Additional topics that are desirable to include are mental health, employment, family and other social relationships, community resources, widowhood, human sexuality, death and dying, and spiritual needs of older people. Locally developed financial support for the programs seems to be the most likely source of funding. (Author/YLB)