Oldest Old: An Overview of the Demographic and Health Implications
The oldest old, also known as the “ultra-elderly”, are a rapidly growing segment of the population with unique demographic and health challenges. This article provides an overview of the oldest old, including indicators of their population growth, and reviews the implications of aging on health and well-being.
Demographic Overview of the Oldest Old
The oldest old are individuals aged 85 and above. They represent the fastest growing segment of the population, with estimates of the number of oldest old in the United States ranging from 4.7 million in 2010 to 8.7 million in 2050 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). This growth in the oldest old population is due to a combination of factors, including increased life expectancy, decreasing fertility, and increased numbers of immigrants (Hobbs & Gu, 2019).
Moreover, the oldest old are often characterized by their gender, racial, and geographic diversity. In the United States, women are more likely than men to reach the age of 85, with estimates of women at 85 and over at 3.2 million compared to 2.3 million men in 2020 (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2020). Similarly, while the majority of the oldest old are white, the number of African American and Hispanic individuals in this age group is also increasing (Hobbs & Gu, 2019). Additionally, the oldest old are disproportionately represented in rural areas, particularly in the South and Midwest (Hobbs & Gu, 2019).
Health Implications of Aging
As individuals age, they are increasingly at risk for physical and cognitive health issues. The oldest old are particularly vulnerable to chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis (Lee et al., 2018). Additionally, mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are also common among the oldest old (Lee et al., 2018).
Furthermore, aging can lead to impaired functional ability and decreased quality of life. Functional ability is the ability to perform basic tasks of daily living, such as dressing, bathing, and using the toilet (Lee et al., 2018). Decreased physical and cognitive function can lead to increased dependence on others for basic needs and activities of daily living, particularly for the oldest old (Lee et al., 2018).
Conclusion
The oldest old are a rapidly growing segment of the population with unique health and functional needs. As life expectancy increases and the population of the oldest old continues to grow, it is important to recognize the impact of aging and to ensure that individuals are equipped with the resources and support they need to remain healthy and independent.
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2020). U.S. population projections: 2020 to 2050. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/data/nvsr/nvsr69/nvsr69_09-508.pdf
Hobbs, F., & Gu, D. (2019). Population aging and its implications in the United States. Population Research and Policy Review, 38(2), 133–155. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11113-018-9496-6
Lee, J. M., Hsu, Y. C., & Chen, C. C. (2018). Health and functional status of the oldest old in Taiwan: A population-based study. BMC Geriatrics, 18(1), 209. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12877-018-0859-4