Harnessing skills and experience

America is aging !

In 1930, 17% of the population was 50 and over. By 2020, more than 36% of Americans will be age 50 and over; 17% will be 65 or older [U.S. Census, 2000]. Increased life expectancy — from 47 in 1900 to over 78 for men and 81 for women today - means that most people will have many more years -- good years! -- after the age of 65, the traditional age for retirement. People who reach 65 in 2011 can expect to live for at least 18 years [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2003].

How can we make the most of this extended life span to confront the urgent problems that confront our communities ?

The 78 million baby boomers who are now coming of age and those who preceded them are the best educated and most affluent group of older adults in American history. A growing number aren’t thinking of “retiring” at all -- but of transitioning from full-time work or family responsibility and entering a new period of life that has opened up between the middle years and true old age.

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Capturing Experience Module 1- People 50+: One Size Doesn't Fit All Module 2 : Getting Out of the Box Module 3-Getting Them in the Door Module 4- Unleashing the Talents of People 50+ My Account Contact Us Acknowledgements Temple University Center for Intergenerational Learning Login or Register	Home » Capturing Experience » Capturing Experience Harnessing skills and experience America is aging ! In 1930, 17% of the population was 50 and over. By 2020, more than 36% of Americans will be age 50 and over; 17% will be 65 or older [U.S. Census, 2000]. Increased life expectancy — from 47 in 1900 to over 78 for men and 81 for women today - means that most people will have many more years -- good years! -- after the age of 65, the traditional age for retirement. People who reach 65 in 2011 can expect to live for at least 18 years [U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 2003]. How can we make the most of this extended life span to confront the urgent problems that confront our communities ? The 78 million baby boomers who are now coming of age and those who preceded them are the best educated and most affluent group of older adults in American history. A growing number aren’t thinking of “retiring” at all -- but of transitioning from full-time work or family responsibility and entering a new period of life that has opened up between the middle years and true old age. » » « back next »