The Aging World Discuss the effect that the aging of the population is having on our society. Explain how the aging of the population is affecting the life chances of older Americans.

Age and Ageism Different societies place different values on age. In preindustrial societies, the social standing of individuals increased with age. The older members of society were viewed as sources of knowledge and as the enforcers of social customs. In industrial societies, middle aged people generally hold the greatest status and power.

Age and Ageism Employment is one of the major indicators of social status in industrial societies. Employment opportunities decline with age. The closer people get to retirement age, the more difficult it is for them to find re-employment in the event of job loss. Ageism is the belief that one age category is by nature superior to another. It’s at the heart of age-based role loss.

Age and Ageism Stereotypes play a major role in ageism. The elderly are often depicted as cranky and unproductive. The media plays a major role in promoting stereotypes in movies, television shows and advertisements. In reality the vast majority of those 65 or older a re more energetic, productive than ever before.

The Aging World Overall, the world’s population is aging. There are roughly 606 million people aged 60 or over worldwide. It is estimated that by 2050 there will be almost 2 billion people over the age of 60. The U.S. Census Bureau predicts that by 2025 over 19% of our population will be 65 or older. By 2050 one in every five Americans will be elderly. This phenomena is known as “ The Graying of America.”

“Graying of America” There are two primary reasons for the graying of America. First, advances in health care and better living conditions. Second, birth rates are changing the age structure of the U.S. Birthrates in the U.S. rose sharply in the 1940’s through the 1960’s, the “Baby boomers.” The birthrate began to decline in the late 1960’s.

The Impact of an Aging America The elderly in the U.S. play a major role in politics. They’re a powerful and sought after voting demographic. They hold many major positions of power. American Association of Retired People, AARP, is one of the most powerful and influential groups in America.

The Impact of an Aging America One of the major concerns for the elderly and our country is Social Security. Social Security is funded by payroll or income taxes on workers, employers, and the self-employed to pay for retirement benefits. While there seems to be enough funds to pay for today’s retiree’s and those receiving these benefits, the concern is that there are not enough workers to continue to paying. With lower birth rates and longer life expectancies the program is facing challenges.

The Impact of an Aging America The rising cost of health care and government sponsored health care programs like Medicare and Medicaid are also challenges for an aging America. Some feel that we are giving to much to today’s retiree’s and are not focused on the future is going to create major problems for all Americans.

Age Issues and Inequality The elderly are often the victims of poverty and crime. Disabilities also affect the elderly. Prejudice and discrimination are also issues that confront the elderly. The ADA or the Americans with Disabilities Act so designed to bring changes and create opportunities fro Americans living with disabilities, especially the elderly.