The population 85 and up represented the most rapid growth of the senior
population (65+) during the 1990s, and they were nearly the fastest growing group overall.
Their numbers increased by 38 percent, from 3.1 million to 4.2 million. Right behind them
was the 75-to-84 age group, whose numbers increased by 23 percent. Interestingly, every
state's senior population grew between 1990 and 2000 with the most marked increase shown
in Nevada; the aptly named, "Silver State" experienced a whopping 72-percent
increase in the 65+ crowd.
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Think that's impressive? By the year 2030, golf carts may be the most popular
form of conveyance as boomers enter their golden years...effectively doubling the senior
population to a staggering
70 million! -JK
Next Month's QuickInsight Aging in America - Part 2
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Population Growth 1990 to 2000:
65 Years and Over by Select Age Group Source: US Census Bureau
1990
2000
%
GROWTH
Total
US
Population
248.7
281.4
13.2%
65+
31.2
35.0
12.0%
75-84
10.1
12.4
22.9%
85+
3.1
4.2
37.7%
(Population
in Millions)
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Ministry Ideas
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Consider the age profile of your congregation. Does it
match the community? Are seniors 65 and older the most rapidly growing group in your
congregation?
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What are the implications of this trend for the future of your church?
Consider discussing this with your leadership.
Do you provide meaningful ways for seniors in your congregation to contribute
to ministry? Are they represented in leadership? Are ties between generations facilitated,
or are the age groups effectively isolated by current programs?
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With the most elderly seniors due to grow at a much more rapid pace over
the next thirty years, are there ways you can help people prepare by speaking to some of
the difficult issues to be faced?
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Consider ministry opportunities for outreach and care among seniors and the
most elderly in your community.
