Aging in Us

Today, the strides made in our health care and standard of living, 43 million Americans have celebrated their 60th birthday. Improved healthcare programs, such as Social Security, Medicare and pension plans, have made it possible for most Americans to enjoy almost 14 years of retirement with a degree of economic security that few older people had at the turn of the century-years that offer the opportunity for leisure activities, second careers, and volunteer service. Nevertheless, many older Americans are at risk of losing their independence, including: The 3 million Americans who are 85 or older, those living alone without a caregiver, members of minority groups, older persons with physical or mental impairments, Low-income older persons, and those who are abused, neglected, or exploited. Of the 9 million Americans over age 65 who live alone, two million say they have no one to turn to if they need help. Lack of a caregiver is a serious problem for those older persons who have chronic conditions and limitations on their ability to care for themselves and their homes. Their problems are often compounded by increased medical costs due to poor health and the need for more supportive services. Unfortunately, those who are most vulnerable are also most likely to live alone and to have limited incomes. Eighty percent of those living alone are women and nearly half of persons aged 85 or older live alone. Older women, the very old, and minority elderly, have, on average, the lowest incomes among the older population which severely limits their ability to purchase the health care, goods, services, and housing options which could help them to remain independent. Just as in the past few decades healthcare, and other such programs offered yto senior citizens,in the future seniors will be offered even more opportunities economically; yet the loneliness that they will have to face is unavoidable. Due to the Baby Boom almost 40 years ago, those baby boomers, in the near future will have to face old age and issues that go along with old age. Yet, because there is a