The voluntary associations of the aged

This paper examines the voluntary associations of the aged. A substantial majority of respondents were affiliated and more than one-half had multiple affiliations. Rate of affiliation remained high even for individuals over 80. Contrary to expectation, women were as likely as men to be affiliated and to have multiple memberships, and were significantly more active in voluntary groups than men. Those belonging to multiple associations were more active in each association than individuals with only one or two affiliations. Overlapping memberships were common. Reasons for active involvement are provided. The bulk of the memberships were of three types which, in function, are integrative at the personality level.