Following previous studies on the associations between aluminium (Al) water concentrations and relatively high risks of a measure of mental impairment, the role of silica (SiO2) as a possible confounding variable is investigated. The bivariate associations show that the lowest odds, representing an approximation of relative risks, are observed at “mild” SiO2 concentrations. Multivariate analyses indicate that, if interaction terms are included, the odds comparing higher and lower SiO2 concentrations are different than if an interaction term is not included. There are also indications that at relatively high Al levels, high SiO2 concentrations lower the odds, consistent with previous suggestions by Birchall. The implication is that when investigating the role of Al in the etiology of various measures of mental impairment, it is important to consider the effects of other water constituents, and also the different chemical forms of Al present in treated water. The desirability of additional work is stressed, preferably using more definitive outcomes than indications of mental impairment.

This paper begins with a discussion of five aspects of the 1990s which characterize the societal context for gerontological research which make this decade distinctive from preceding ones. These include: gerontology has come of age; the acceptance of a broad definition of health; the recognition of the role of research in policy and program development; the recognition of applied research; and a climate of cost consciousness which applies to many areas, including research which demands it be accurate and usable. The paper discusses the rediscovery of qualitative research as the new hope for answering many of our questions. It is noted that qualitative research has much to offer, although it is not a panacea and should compliment not replace traditional quantitative methods. The following section talks about knowing enough to know when not to do research and educating others about what any particular research project will not do. The remainder of the paper discusses the promise of, and some of the practical means of accomplishing collaborative research.