When agnes met alzheimer: The elderly-a growing minority in America

摘要

Old people in the United States comprise a large, rapidly growing minority of the population. Currently, some 40 million people, 13% of the U. S. population, are 65 and older. These numbers are steadily increasing now that the baby boomers are turning .65. By 2030, the elderly group is projected to grow to 72 million, nearly 20% of the population. The Census Bureau estimates that the cohorts of 85 years or more will also increase markedly; by 2009, there were already 64,000 people at least 100 years old, a tribute to modern medicine and our relative prosperity. The elderly will increasingly need special housing, suitable recreation, and ample medical and caretaking services for a cohort largely better educated than today's elderly and perhaps accustomed to a more comfortable lifestyle.