Aging in America: An Overview

This article appeared in the GAO Review, Vol. 15, Issue 1, Winter 1980. There were 24 million Americans aged 65 or over in 1979. They represent 11 percent of the population; and their problems, needs, and desires, are gaining increasing attention. The needs of the elderly include income, shelter, health care, nutrition, a sense of belonging, and satisfaction. Fulfilling these basic needs can become critical problems, since the elderly are among the poorest group in the Nation. Inflation has had a devastating effect on retirement income. Rising health care costs are a vital concern. The Federal Government has responded to the plight of the elderly with several programs. Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid provide significant financial assistance. The Government has established the Administration on Aging which administers programs for planning and social services, nutrition, multi-purpose senior centers, research and development in aging, model projects demonstrating innovative delivery techniques, training for careers in gerontology, community service employment, and volunteer work programs. The Federal programs are important but they do not solve all the problems of old age. Issues concerning the elderly are gaining increasing attention. In addition to Social Security and national health insurance, Congress will be considering: a national policy for long-term care of the elderly; the need for a Cabinet-level national aging office; and whether the Older Americans Act programs should continue to serve all citizens over age 60 or older or focus on the elderly over age 75.