Aging Demographics in the U.S.

Question 1

Demography

Answer 1

Study of populations
Counting and describing people
Calculate life expectancy, birth/fertility rates, average age at marriage
Helps determine needs/services of the community

Question 2

Population Changes

Answer 2

Elderly population will more than double between 2000 and 2030 (35 mil to 70 mil)

Attributed to the baby boom

Question 3

3 Processes that Affect Populations

Answer 3

1. Fertility
2. Mortality
3. Migration

Processes affected by: economic development, technology, religious, and cultural views

Question 4

Indicators of Population Aging

Answer 4

Greater number of older people
Higher median age
85+ is the fastest growing population
Centenarians are a growing population

Question 5

Other Demographic Trends

Answer 5

Increasing diversity
Increasing levels of education
Changes in families

Question 6

Gender, Race & Class

Answer 6

Effects of aging are compounded by additional effects of race, class, and gender for a higher risk of health and social problems

1. Women live longer than men
2. Income varies with race, many live below poverty level
3. At greatest risk for poverty if you are black of hispanic, 65+
4. White people are most likely to live 80+, but aging population is becoming more diverse
5. Increased health problems in 65+ population
6. Older adults are more likely to have disabilities
7. Health care costs are rising