HEALTHCARE IN THE UNITED STATES

SPECIAL POPULATIONS

Disease and disability are not considered a normal part of aging. However, “in 2018, 49% of persons with a disability were age 65 and older” (Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2019b, para 4). Figure 7.8 notes the characteristics of the Medicare population.

Figure 7.8: Characteristics of the Medicare Population

Source: Kaiser Family Foundation

Attribution: Kaiser Family Foundation

License: © Kaiser Family Foundation. Used with permission.

Pause and Reflect

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (2019), Medicare

spending is projected to grow from 3.7% of GDP today to 5.9% in 2040. Consider

the continued growth of the aging population. How will Medicare keep pace with

the expected expenditures? Do you think there will be Medicare funds available

for you at 65 years of age? Do you anticipate the government will increase the

age of eligibility?

People are living longer, due in large part to improved medical care and positive behavioral changes (National Institutes of Health (NIH), 2018). Agencies, such as the CDC, and organizations, such as the Healthy People initiative, focus on population health, including but not limited to such areas as obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and stroke. Healthy People (2020) note that aging adults manage two or more chronic conditions that can lower quality of life and contribute to a leading cause of death.

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