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By MARK PATTERSON
As we move closer to the 21st Century, it’s becoming more and more difficult to avoid the (acts about our aging society.
Americans are getting older.
The percentage of our population over age 66 continues to increase at rates that tar exceed growth in other age categories. And with this growth comes increasing demand for services and health care like we have never seen before.
According to the 1990 census, 31 million Americans are age 65 or older, a 22.3% increase from 10 years ago. This increase
a in stark contrast to the 8% increase
1 population of all age groups below
during the past decade.
By the year 2030, it’s estimated that 22% of our total population will be age 66 or older.
In Virginia, the numbers are more dramatic. The state has seen a 32% increase in residents over age 65. And to bring this issue even closer to home, Fauquier County is experiencing a 32% increase in residents over age 60. These numbers are significant, but they still leave us asking, what does it all mean?
The meaning lies in needs. As Fauquier residents get older and our baby boomers move into their senior years, agerelated and not-so-age-related needs will increase.
Health care, stimulating activities, recreation, assisted living, education and awareness — these needs and many more are and will be in high demand. Fortuna
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