Aging

Our aging population

The population of the United States is becoming much older, with nearly one in five U.S. residents being aged 65 and older by 2030.

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 population of 40.2 million in 2010. The baby boomers are largely responsible for this increase in the older population, as they began crossing into this category in 2011. The aging of the population will have wide-ranging implications for the country.

By 2015, In Tennessee alone, there will be over 1.3 million persons over the age of 60, or a full 20.9% of the state’s population. That will be just a bit more than the 20.3% estimated for the U. S. in the same year.

Life Expectancy

Female life expectancy has long exceeded male life expectancy, resulting in women outnumbering men in the older age groups. While that trend is projected to continue over the next four decades, the gap between the number of women and men is expected to narrow. This narrowing is due to the more rapid increase in life expectancy for men that is projected over the next several decades. Among those 65 years and over in 2050, 55 percent are projected to be female, down from 57 percent in 2010.

As we age

As we age, we need help. About 70 percent of people over age 65 will require some type of long-term care services during their lifetime. More than 40 percent will need care in a nursing home. Things that increase your risk or make it more likely that you’ll need long-term care include:

•Age: The older you get, the more likely it is that you’ll need help.

•Living alone: If you live alone, you’re more likely to need paid care than if you’re married or single and living with a partner.

•Gender: Women are more likely to need long-term care than men, primarily because women tend to live longer.

•Lifestyle: Poor diet and exercise habits increase the chance that you’ll need long-term care.

•Personal history: Health and family history can increase the chances you’ll need long-term care.

That is where Comfort Care can help. Call us today for a NO obligation needs assessment.