EN
The article contains an analysis of changes in the number and structure of older population (aged 60 and over) in rural areas and agriculture of Poland over the years 1950-1983. There are presented both the factors behind the population aging process and its consequences. A special attention has been paid to the professional activity level of the agricultural population. The authors have proved that there exists a correlation between the size of farms and the age of their owners. The article ends with estimates concerning the number of farms run by elderly persons with are threatened with lack of successors.