Chapter 12, Problem 1CC-P285

Summary Introduction

Introduction

Graying happens when the proportion of the population that is elderly increases. This is due to the post WW2 baby boom. Modern families are having fewer children and living longer. The average life expectancy for men in the United States has grown from 46 in 1900 to 76 today. This number is expected to increase in coming years for men, and the life expectancy for women is also anticipated to increase.

Explanation of Solution

Answer and explanation

There are several factors leading to the graying of America. Graying is when there are disproportionately more elderly people in a population. One factor is the boom in birth rates just after the end of World War II and extending to 1964. The youngest of the baby boom generation are now turning 55 years old and the others are already elderly. Secondly, the birth rate in the United States is decreasing, thereby reducing the number of young people in proportion to elderly. Finally, the average person is living much longer these days due to better nutrition and healthcare. For example, the average life expectancy for men in 1900 was only 46 years. In the 1930s, when Social Security was enacted for people over the age of 65, while 65 was the average life expectancy! Currently, the average man lives 76 years in the United States, leading to a greater number of elderly people. As the older population continues to grow as an overall percentage of the population, the United States may face a crisis, as it does not have the infrastructure to attend to the needs of a much larger population of senior citizens.