This case study of the elderly in Pakistan conformed to ESCAP guidelines on selecting mixed socioeconomic groups. The sample included 4 local areas within NWFP and the Punjab states: Hattar, Baffa, Daska, and Chak No. 32/12L. 130 elderly (50 females and 80 males) were selected from electoral lists for each of the four areas. The total sample included 520 persons: 320 males and 200 females, predominantly aged 60-69 years. Current elderly population was about 7.2 million and was expected to increase to 9.1 million by the turn of the century. Findings indicated that economic activity of the female elderly was low. Self-employment and agriculture were the dominant occupations of the elderly. Most households had more than six children, and the elderly remained economically active after the age of 60 years. Elderly with low educational levels were unable to secure industrial employment opportunities nearby. The results revealed a strong need for agencies to help secure employment for the elderly or to promote skill development for the young in families with elderly parents. A recommendation was made for establishment of processing plants for tea and tobacco, which could hire the elderly and would be in proximity of crop production. The elderly reported a need for government provision of economic and other support for the elderly in order to remain economically self-reliant. Widowhood among females was high, in part due to cultural taboos. Elderly women considered paid employment a better option than other work. The elderly still hold great respect in the community. For this reason, strategies should be developed for the elderly's involvement in community development. Interdependence between the elderly and their families has meant that the elderly frequently were not paid for their household contributions. Zakat was a religiously obligated fund available for the poor and needy. Respondents suggested that the elderly be included as beneficiaries of Zakat funds. About 30% of male elderly respondents indicated a willingness to work for improving the welfare of the elderly. Priorities were given to government provision of income for work, loans or subsidies, financial security, proper health care, housing, and other basic needs. Health facilities in rural areas were found to be inadequate.