Age and Occupation: an Examination of 1961 Census Data.

The usefulness of the Registrar General's Classification of Occupations is discussed from the standpoint of research on ageing. Table 2 of the Registrar General's Occupational Tables is reanalysed to determine the validity of making generalisations on the basis of this classification. It was found that only a few of these generalisations could be made with any validity A new classification is called for and some promising approaches are indicated. A simple method of treating the Occupational Tables is proposed as an aid to rapid comparisons between occupations. The method minimises confusion engendered both by the way data are presented and by underlying demographic trends. Age curves, showing the age structure, are plotted for three occupations and the usefulness of these curves in predicting likely problem areas are demonstrated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]