The Australian population is rapidly getting older, demanding important policy and service decisions. This groundbreaking book is the first to explore a 100-year history of older people in Australia from 1880 to 1980. Over that period the aged suffered as 'forgotten people' until 1945, when there was the promise of a new deal for the elderly. Major themes examined include family histories of aged care, poverty, social and medical policy, gender, the impact of wars and economic depression, housing, nursing homes and the retirement debates. Old Age in Australia provides essential historical context for current discussions about the implications of ageing in Australia.