The population of the United States is growing older, a phenomenon widely noted and described, with significant implications for the nation's health, social, and economic institutions. It is necessary to understand the past demographic and socioeconomic trends to better estimate the future size and characteristics of the older population as well as to forecast their demand for services and the extent to which those demands can be met. Analysis of the demographic and socioeconomic trends of the elderly population will also help identify data needed to make informed policy decisions related to the health of the future elderly population.
