"Persons 85-100 years of age, the oldest-old, are the fastest growing age groups. In an effort to learn more about this age group, the authors embarked a longitudinal study initially funded by the National Institute on Aging. There is something fascinating about people who have outlived their projected lifetime. What were their lives like? How did they cope with the changes they encountered? Based on the authors' research findings, the chapters explore the oldest-olds' perceptions over time, the relationship between stress and function, and the services and resources necessary to meet the needs of this unique group of people. Topics new to aging research are addressed as well including the effects of continuing to have goals and how the oldest old copes with everyday problems. This is a valuable resource for researchers, practitioners, and students in the health and psychological arenas including gerontology, social work, nursing, and psychology."--BOOK JACKET.