The Problem

 

Senior Citizens are the Fastest-growing Population Segment in the United States

 

The face of America is changing. Increasingly, we are becoming a nation of elders. 77 million baby boomers will begin to “come of age” in 2010 ~ a virtual tidal wave of older persons. In Steuben County, the impact on individuals, families, taxpayers, and the entire health care system will be staggering.

 

Some startling statistics about our aging population

  • Currently, 1 in every 8 individuals in the US is over age 65. Between 2000 and 2010, the 65+ population in the United States is expected to continue to grow at a rate twice that of the general population. And by 2030, 1 in every 4 individuals will be over age 65!

  • In New York State, the most rapid growth between 2000 and 2015 is projected to occur among the oldest and most frail population groups – a rate of 28.2% for those over 85 and 16% for impaired individuals. Almost 60% will need assistance with daily living.

  • In Steuben County, the population projections are even more dramatic. The percentage of people over age 85 is expected to increase by 54% between the years 2000 and 2015.

  • As many as 40% of those over age 65 will have nutrition-related health problems requiring treatment or management.

  • 1 in 10 people over the age of 65, and 1 in 2 over the age of 85, will develop Alzheimer’s Disease.

Major health insurance providers are already imposing double-digit increases in annual premiums in anticipation of escalating utilization rates due to the influx of baby boomers.

 

This is a problem now!

 

So imagine the scope of the problem in the next 10-15 years as aging baby boomers flood the ranks of our seniors and begin to access geriatric health care.


 

 

Watch our Video "Endow Their Future... and Yours"

View our video "Endow Their Future... and Yours" on YouTube.

 

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Elderly woman smiles as she reminisces
 
"Uncle George" Huffines at Home
 
Loving elderly couple
 
 

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