A national survey of the needs, resources, and future expectations of veterans aged 55 and over produced findings that the Veterans Administration (VA) will use over the next decade to plan facilities and programs to meet those needs. Findings indicated veterans had a higher educational level and were less likely to be at the lower end of the occupational scale than non-veterans of the same age. Retired veterans were substantially better off. Three-fourths had savings accounts, 42 percent had other investments, and nearly 9 out of 10 owned their own home. Although the majority described their health as excellent or good compared to others their own age, nearly half reported that their health limited their activities. Certain types of chronic diseases, including arthritis and hypertension, were widespread. While four of five veterans had group or private health insurance, Medicare formed the cornerstone of the aging veterans' health coverage. The survey identified, however, the existence of a medically indigent group of veterans. Most veterans did not believe they would be able to absorb the cost of future long-term care needs. An important finding was that current utilization rates of VA hospitals by aging veterans may drastically underrepresent the true demand. (Numerous data tables are provided. The questionnaire is appended.) (YLB)