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Hypothesized that some of the characteristics frequently observed among the aged (eg, feelings of depression and helplessness and accelerated physical decline) are at least in part attributable to loss of control. A field experiment in which 42 67-96 yr old Ss in a private retirement home were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 conditions was carried out to assess the effects of increased control and predictability upon physical and psychological well-being. Ss in 3 of the 4 conditions were visited by college undergraduates under varying contingencies, while persons in the 4th condition were not visited and served as a baseline comparison group. Ss in the control condition could determine both the frequency and duration of visits they received. A 2nd group of Ss (predict) was informed when they would be visited and how long the visitor would stay, but had no control over these details. A 3rd group (random) was visited on …