December

Older Americans 2004: Indicators of Well-Being

Key findings of this new federal report include:

In 2003, nearly 36 million people age 65 and over lived in the United States (just over 12 percent of the total population). During the 20th century, the older population grew from 3 million to 35 million and is projected to grow to almost 87 million by 2050.

Women make up 58 percent of the population age 65 and over and 69 percent of the population age 85 and over. 

Between 1974 and 2002, the median house-hold income for people age 65 and over increased and fewer older people are living below the poverty threshold.

Between 1984 and 2001, the median net worth of households headed by people age 65 and over increased by 82 percent (after accounting for inflation).

Americans are living longer than ever before.

The age-adjusted proportion of older Americans with a chronic disability has  declined. 

During the period 2000 to 2002, 73 percent of people age 65 and over rated their health as good or better.

The increase in the prevalence of over- weight and obesity among older adults has been dramatic.

Medicare pays for slightly more than one-half (54 percent) of the overall health care costs for its enrollees age 65 and over. 

The age-adjusted rate of nursing home residence among the older population declined but the number of current nursing home residents has increased.