Commission on Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education & Committee on National Statistics 
Aging Population in the Twenty-First Century 
Statistics for Health Policy

It is not news that each of us grows old. What is relatively new, however, is that the average age of the American population is increasing. More and better information is required to assess, plan for, and meet the needs of a graying population. The Aging Population in the Twenty-First Century examines social, economic, and demographic changes among the aged, as well as many health-related topics: health promotion and disease prevention; quality of life; health care system financing and use; and the quality of care–especially long-term care. Recommendations for increasing and improving the data available–as well as for ensuring timely access to them–are also included.