This is a sociological analysis of the social status of the eldest stratum of the population. On the basis of the empirical evidence collected, numerous problems facing old people in Serbia are discussed, in the area of health care, possibilities for satisfying the basic vital needs, housing needs, as well as the problem of violence against the elderly. The second part of the book analyzes various models of social protection of the elderly, first in a number of West European countries and the USA, and then in Serbia. On the basis of this analysis, the author examines possible mechanisms for improving institutional capacities that would be adapted to the specific features of Serbia’s institutional system and society.