NCJ Number
225465
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 77 Issue: 11 Dated: November 2008 Pages: 1-6
Date Published
November 2008
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article examines law enforcement issues related to an aging United States population.
Abstract
The article makes several recommendations and indicates that those in the law enforcement profession should maintain close contact with seniors to understand their needs and provide the best possible services. The article notes that by working with local agencies and meeting with retirement community administrators and senior residents, leaders will be able to meet the challenges that accompany the increasing number of senior communities. Forming strong coalitions, looking to the future, and thinking ahead will prime agencies for the changes before they occur. The research reveals that people 65 years of age or older make up approximately 12.4 percent of the U.S. population; by 2030, this figure will rise to about 20 percent and by 2010, the number of citizens 85 years of age and over will expand to more than 30 percent. Further, the senior population in several States will substantially outpace the national rate by 2025. They will live in assisted, unassisted, and conventional communities, as well as shared and supported housing. Cities and counties throughout the United States should expect a larger elderly population and the creation of more retirement facilities in their jurisdictions and accordingly, both large and small departments will face an increasing number of persons over the age of 65 and they must prepare for their arrival. 2 charts and 10 notes