Author: Grayson K. Vincent

Publisher:

Published: 2010

Total Pages: 16

ISBN-13:

The purpose of this report is to present information on how the age structure of the overall population and the composition of the older population in terms of age, sex, race, and Hispanic origin are expected to change over the next four decades. Between 2010 and 2050, the United States is projected to experience rapid growth in its older population. In 2050, the number of Americans aged 65 and older is projected to be 88.5 million, more than double its projected population of 40.2 million in 2010. The baby boomers are largely responsible for this increase in the older population, as they will begin crossing into this category in 2011. The aging of the population will have wide-ranging implications for the country. As the United States ages over the next several decades, its older population will become more racially and ethnically diverse. Projecting the size and structure, in terms of age, sex, race, and Hispanic origin, of the older population is important to public and private interests, both socially and economically. The projected growth of the older population in the United States will present challenges to policy makers and programs, such as Social Security and Medicare. It will also affect families, businesses, and health care providers.