America not ready for aging boomers

America not ready for aging boomers
[28 September 2006 - United Press International] Fewer than half of American communities are ready to provide health and lifestyle services for the aging population, according to a national study released Wednesday. The study, "The Maturing of America -- Getting Communities on Track for an Aging Population," surveyed 10,000 local U.S. governments to determine their "aging readiness." The report also provided recommendations for communities on how best to provide for an elderly population. The baby boom generation -- born between 1946 and 1964 -- is reaching retirement age. The demographic event has been dubbed the "silver tsunami" by some commentators. In 2000 there were 35 million Americans over the age of 65. By 2030 it is predicted that this figure will have doubled. One in five Americans will be senior citizens. "Given that the first of the baby boomers turned 60 this year, now is really the time for the nation and its communities to ensure that they are age-ready," said Sibyl Jacobson, president and chief executive officer of MetLife Foundation, at a news conference Wednesday. More