In: Economics
Age is an important factor to analyze with accompanying demographic figures, such as income and health. The two key factors associated with aging in America are:
The US is an ageing society. Between 2000 and 2050, the number of older people is projected to increase by 135%. Moreover, the population aged 85 and over, which is the group most likely to need health and long-term care services, is projected to increase by 350%. Over this time-period, the proportion of the population that is over the age of 65 will increase from 12.7% in 2000 to 20.3% in 2050; the proportion of the population that is age 85 and older will increase from 1.6% in 2000 to 4.8% in 2050.
The ageing of the population will have a major impact on the organization and delivery of health care. Of particular importance will be the shift from acute to chronic illnesses and the likely growing shortage of health care workers, especially nurses and paraprofessionals