Aging
Senior Citizens in the US
Our Aging Population
US Census Facts
In 2020, about 1 in 6 people in the United States were age 65 and over; in 1920, this proportion was less than 1 in 20.
The older population increased by 50.9 million, from 4.9 million (or 4.7% of the total U.S. population) in 1920 to 55.8 million (16.8%) in 2020. This represents a growth rate of about 1,000%, almost 5x that of the total population (about 200%).
The rapid growth was largely driven by aging “baby boomers” (born between 1946 and 1964) who began turning 65 in 2011. As of 2023, the US population aged 64+ was 57,884 million and as of 2026 is estimated to be 61 million. (US Census).
Women over 65 outnumber men, and the number of Americans aged 85+ is expected to nearly triple between 2020-2060, from 6.7 million to 19 million. One reason that women outnumber men at older ages is US generational history. Tied to World War II, the “Greatest Generation” members were between 18-44 years old when the war ended in 1945. This generation’s sex disparity — fewer men than women — reflects, in part, the heavy toll of male lives lost during that decades-earlier war. As that generation grew older, the gap gradually narrowed as cohorts whose mortality was less affected by war entered those age groups.
Mortality rates for older men have been decreasing faster than for women and, as a result, men's share of the older population has increased. While women continue to outnumber men at older ages, the gap between the sexes narrowed in the past 25 years. In 2001, there were 70.6 males for every 100 females age 65+. By 2025, the ratio increased substantially to 81.6. The gap among those age 80+ narrowed even more dramatically — from 50.9 males per 100 females in 2001 to 68.3 in 2025. (US Census)
Around the world, people are living longer thanks to achievements in healthcare, disease prevention, education, nutrition and government policies. (Consider Medicare’s impact: prior to its introduction, half of all Americans age 65+ didn’t have health coverage; but that percentage dropped to 2% afterwards. Consequently, life expectancy began to increase. [AMA Center for Optimal Health Outcomes]) By 2050, the world’s population of older people is expected to double. Yet all too often, these additional years are not as healthy and fulfilling as they could be.
As the population ages, there could be significant implications for healthcare, housing, workforce participation and social services, highlighting the growing importance of policy planning for an aging population.
Explore Related Topics
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Myths About Aging and Sex
Dispel some common senior sex myths and get the corrected information.
Elder Abuse
Learn the dangers of elder abuse, whether related to family, assisted living, or other situations. It can happen to anyone. Learn to spot the signs.
Reflection Questions
Consider the following questions yourself or with a partner:
- In your mind, how old do you feel?
- What makes someone "old" or "young"?
- Do you try to look younger for your age?
- Are you afraid of getting older? If so, why?
- Do you look forward to anything about getting older?
Further Reading
Sources
- U.S. Older Population Grew From 2010 to 2020 at Fastest Rate Since 1880 to 1890 (census.gov)
- United States of America (World Health Organization (WHO))
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