Public
Support for Programs for Older Americans:
Continuities Amidst Threats of Discontinuities
Fay Lomax Cook
Abstract
Some commentators argue that one implication of the
growing numbers of older persons is increased levels of resentment
and anger against the old. Using analyses of media portrayals and
the results of public and elite opinion surveys, this paper examines
the extent to which one "accompaniment" of the aging society has
been growing antagonism toward the old. Results show that, in fact,
these analysts are quite right in their warnings about the possible
change in anger against the old if we look at the media and views
of certain policy elites. However, these media portrayals have not
resulted in a loss of public support for social programs for the
old. Instead, the public's support for social programs that target
elderly people is strong and has shown a remarkable degree of continuity
over time. However, amidst the continuing hostile political climate
and the politics of blame, which view the elderly as exacerbating
problems ranging from the deficit to health care costs, it is difficult
to predict how long such support can be maintained.
Fay Lomax Cook,School of Education and Social Policy, Northwestern
University
To Order:
Hard copies of IPR working papers cost $5.00 each (international orders are $10 each). We only accept checks drawn on U.S. bank and payable in U.S. funds. Checks or
money orders should be made payable to Northwestern University and sent to
the following address:
Publications Department - WP Orders
Institute for Policy Research
2040 Sheridan Rd., Evanston, IL 60208-4100.
For information, call 847-491-8712 or email ipr@northwestern.edu.
Please note that we do not accept credit cards.
