This first volume of three of the final report of the 1981 White House Conference on Aging contains the response to the congressional charge to the Conference that the final report propose a national policy on aging not only for the minority who need aid but also for the majority of older adults who live in comfort and security. The report is divided into five chapters aimed at addressing areas of major concern to the nation and its elderly citizens. The first chapter, on the economy, discusses the importance of preparing our economy for an aging population, the changes which may be expected to result from this aging, the consequences of these changes, and the necessity to plan to meet the decade ahead. Chapter 2, income in old age, concentrates on the Social Security System, how it works, its problems, and some of the options available for strengthening the system. Chapter 3, health care, discusses the medical delivery system, long-term care, and disease prevention. Chapter 4, social benefits and services, sets forth the policy thrust proposed for other benefits for the elderly. Chapter 5, research, discusses the research implications of the national policy. For each area, issues are defined, policy options are explored, and recommendations are made. (MCF)