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July 24, 2008 11:15:46 PM CDT

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Older (White) Americans Live Longer, Larger

Posted Mar 28, 08 4:55 PM CDT in US,  Science & Health 

(Newser) – Americans over age 65 have better financial security, are better educated and expected to live far longer than ever, a study finds—but huge gaps remain between results for whites and those for blacks and Latinos. "The life expectancy gap between whites and blacks has narrowed but is still large," a researcher tells Reuters. "There is a big wealth gap between whites and blacks."

The report forecasts that by 2030, the number of Americans over 65 will nearly double to 71.5 million, or 20% of population. Seniors' average net worth has increased almost 80% over the past 20 years—as has their weight: 37% of 65- to 74-year-old women are obese. And US life expectancy remains lower than in many other high-income countries.

Sources Reuters, National Institute on aging

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By 2030, 20% of the US population will be over 65.   ((c) zappowbang)
Those who reach the age of 65 are now expected to live an average of 19 more years, or seven years longer than in 1900.   (Getty Images)
The comprehensive new government report on aging features data from 15 federal agencies on trends in population, economics and health issues.   ((c) neovain)
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obesity  • race  • elderly  • aging  • senior citizens  • racial inequality  • National Institute on Aging


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