This is a review of recent literature on ageing that focuses on the social and health consequences of rapid demographic change. It explores the complex dimensions of demographic transition, the health needs of the elderly, the social consequences of ageing, policy implications and priority areas for research and development. Against a comparative perspective examining the similarities and differences in the ageing process in developed and developing countries, a range of methodological, resource and policy issues is examined. The volume includes an annotated review of the journal and monographic literature on the subject.