Trends In Population Makeup

Perhaps the greatest trend in population makeup and statistics is the increase in the age group known as baby boomers. This demographic unit is comprised of individuals born between 1946 and 1964 and has seen the most significant growth of any class in the last 80 years (). The rate of growth between 1900 and 2010 for this class was .74% every ten years, however, according to projections based on census data, that rate of growth is expected to increase to nearly 3% year; a this speed, it is estimated that 20% of our total population will be senior citizens, over the age of 65 ().

This growth explosion can be attributed to longer-life spans due to advancements in medicine, health education and quality of life. This growth and increased longevity
will have far-reaching ramifications with regard to current resources available for this class as well as the overall health of this country. As the average age increases, so does the demand for quality healthcare coverage, services and disease management. As these resources are taxed, this will necessitate a re-evaluation of the systems currently in place and how to streamline them to accommodate the increased demand.