The February 22nd USA TODAY featured a couple of articles on our migration patterns, how they seem to be changing, and possible implications of those changes.
Haya El Nassar, in a front page article, comments on the phenomenon of retirees returning from Florida and other retirement states as they age.
She cites experts on aging who say "they usually go back when their health weakens, they lose a spouse or their savings dry up. The main reason for moving: to be near family."
Sandy Markwood, the CEO of the National Association of Area Agencies on Aging is quoted as saying they "usually return to the place they come from, especially if their children live there."
El Nasser calls these folks "boomerang" seniors.
While there are 10.8 million people age 80 or over now, the Census Bureau projects that number to 15.6 million by 2025.
Here's the kicker: Says Elise Bolda , head of the Community Partnerships for Older Adults, " Communities are just beginning to understand the demographic demands of longevity."
In a related story on Page 3 Tim Connelly of Home Instead Senior Care asks whether communities are ready for the increased pressure on senior services such as transportation, housing designed for senior needs and the like.
"I don't think so," he says.
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