According to the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA) the first of 78 million baby boomers (people born between 1946 and 1964) will start transitioning into retirement in 2011, kicking off a senior population boom that will continue for decades. The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that one out of every nine baby boomers will live to at least age 90.
Older Adults Will Continue to Shape Our Nation
As we have since the 60's, boomers will continue to shape the nation's politics, economic policies, social habits and cultural influences. People are retiring later, staying more active, traveling more and getting more out of life.
Continuing a tradition of giving back some of the knowledge, experience, and economic advantages we received, older adults support our society by providing millions of hours of volunteer, community, and civic service through volunteer organizations and a variety of local causes and events.
And because the current and future generation of older adults promises to be among the most active and engaged older adult populations in U.S. history, contributions of older adults will continue to flourish in the coming years.
More Seniors Means More Senior Services are Needed
Our expanding older adult population spotlights a serious need -- and responsibility -- to ensure the well-being of all older adults in the U.S.
The AoA reports that thousands of professionals, caregivers, and volunteers that make up the National Aging Services Network have been collaborating for decades to fulfill the mission of the Older Americans Act, and the network is working on modernizing care systems which will provide consumers with more control over their lives.
We must also ask our political representatives to make healthcare and services more affordable and available to older adults, and to improve the health of Social Security, upon which many older adults depend.
Each May, Older Americans Month gives us an opportunity to bring attention to the issues that affect older adults.
The AoA suggests that you can improve the overall quality of life for older adults by helping them:
- Make behavioral changes in their lifestyles that can reduce your risk of disease, disability, and injury.
- Obtain the tools they need to make informed decisions about existing healthcare and long-term care options in their communities.
- Have more options to avoid placement in nursing homes and remain at home as long as possible.
By improving healthcare options, community services, the availability of affordable medications, and strengthening Social Security, we benefit today's older adults and the generations to follow. This improves the quality of life for everyone.
