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Growing Older in America

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GROWING OLDER IN AMERICA
The United States more than ever, is experiencing a dramatic increase in the number of people who live to old age. An increase in seniors is attributed to advances in science, technology and medicine leading to reductions in infant and maternal mortality, infectious and parasitic diseases, occupational safety measures and improvements in nutrition and education. This occurrence is creating challenges for Americans of all ages as they deal with Social Security, health care, housing, employment and other national issues that are important to an aging population.
The number of Americans living over the age of 65 has dramatically increased in the past years. People are beginning to live well past retirement and later stages of their lives because they have remained healthy and productive. Given the fact that America is aging, it is important to have resources available for American’s who will soon dip into retirement funds and Medicare. A good question to ask as America becomes populated by more and more elderly is, “How can the unique needs and desires of each person be appropriately assessed and addressed in a rapidly changing health care environment?” In 2011 “baby boomers” began to turn 65 which accounted for 14 percent of the U.S. population, that percentage will increase to 20 by the year 2030 (APA). The average life expectancy for men is now 73 years and for women it is 80 years. These baby boomers will have a significant impact on American society and will challenge the health care delivery and financing systems.
As the life expectancy increases, the elderly will spend more than half of their adult life in retirement (Helsler, 2000), many will re-enter the workforce as a way to socialize and maintain active. Employers will also discover that mature adults hold more years on experience (Helsler, 2000). Medical expenses will also rise

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