American Psychological Association
Changes in Mental Health and Mental Processes
Demographic, Economic, and Social Issues
Psychological Problems of Older Adults
- Our population of older Americans is increasingly more educated. While 34 percent of those over age 65 graduated from high school, that figure will rise to 83 percent by the year 2030.
- Thirteen percent of older adults live in poverty, as compared with 15 percent of Americans under age 65. However, the figure is 33 percent for African-Americans, 22 percent for Hispanics, and 20 percent for adults over age 85.
- Sixty-four percent of older Americans between the ages of 65 and 74 are married and live with a spouse; while of those over age 85, 24 percent are married and live with a spouse, and 48 percent live alone. Among women over age 65, one-half are widowers.
- The primary source of income for those over age 65 is social security benefits.
- Religious affiliation is the most common form of organizational participation among older adults, with 50 percent reporting attending services weekly.
- Two-thirds reported voting in the 1992 presidential election, compared to 50 percent of younger adults.
