This report makes specific references to Jewish concerns while examining the respective responsibilities of the state, community, family, and the individual in caring for the elderly. It makes the critical point that reliance on the nuclear family in modern societies for elderly support becomes more tenuous to the extent that there are fewer adult children to provide support to their elderly relatives. The ratios of caregiving-aged adults (ages 45- 59) for every 100 older adults (ages 75+) in Jewish populations in different areas of the world are compared, and it is noted that differences in these ratios are reflected in major differences in the degree to which financial, social, health, and psychological needs are adequately met through networks of family, friends, and neighbors. Special attention is paid to the population of very old adults (those aged 85 and older) and their offspring in their 60's. The marital status of older adults and the prospect of caregiving support from a spouse are also considered. Intergenerational families are described and relationships between grandparents, their children, and their grandchildren are examined. The effectiveness of the creation of separate policies, programs, and services for the elderly is explored in a section on age integration and segregation; the view of the aged as a burden or asset is discussed; and loneliness and leisure time roles are also investigated. Care of the elderly and leadership roles are addressed. (NB)