AARP Stands for All Older Americans
Since 1958, we have fought for the priorities of older Americans, no matter what. We always have, and we always will. AARP has members in every congressional district, representing all people 50-plus. We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that advocates for our members and all older Americans in the areas of healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse.
Over the years, AARP has worked with every president, Congress, governor and statehouse.
- We are 100 percent committed to our priorities.
- We are 100 percent nonpartisan — we do not engage in partisan politics.
- We do not support or contribute to political candidates, parties or campaigns.
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Reducing Prescription Drug Costs
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About ACS DataExplorer
The Strategic Value of 50+ Population Data
America's 50+ population is one of the most significant and growing forces shaping the nation's future. By 2034, the U.S. Census Bureau projects that adults 65 and older will outnumber children under 18 for the first time in U.S. history.
Access to accurate data on the 50+ population is essential for understanding and responding to the Longevity Economy. This population holds the majority of the nation's wealth, drives healthcare innovation, and shapes housing and labor markets in profound ways.
1. Population: The Scale of the Shift
The size and diversity of America's 50+ population is the foundation of all other metrics. Data here reveals not just total numbers, but important trends in racial and ethnic diversity that will shape every sector of American life.
America's age structure is shifting as the 50+ population grows. This data informs legislative representation, tax base projections, and workforce planning. Without it, communities cannot adequately prepare for the changing needs of their residents.
2. Health: Supporting Longer, Healthier Lives
Adults 50 and older account for the vast majority of healthcare spending, and their needs are shifting toward long-term management of chronic conditions. Understanding this shift is essential for delivering care that is both effective and affordable.
Data on chronic conditions — including diabetes, heart disease, and dementia — helps policymakers, insurers, and health systems allocate resources wisely. Data on health span versus life span is equally important: living longer should mean living better. This information drives Medicare and Medicaid planning and the development of new health technologies and telehealth services.
3. Economy: The Longevity Market
Adults 50 and older control approximately 70% of the disposable income in the U.S. and represent one of the most powerful economic forces in the country — while also facing unique financial challenges.
Economic data here tells two important stories.
The Opportunity: Adults 50+ drive spending in travel, leisure, and consumer goods, representing a massive and growing market that businesses and policymakers cannot afford to overlook.
The Challenge: Data on retirement savings gaps and economic insecurity among older adults is vital for designing effective social safety nets and retirement policy reforms.
4. Housing and Living: Helping People Age Where They Choose
Most adults 50+ want to age in place — in the homes and communities they know — yet the majority of U.S. housing stock is not designed to accommodate changing mobility needs. Current data reveals a significant gap between housing supply and what an aging population actually requires.
This data drives urban planning and real estate development. It highlights the need for accessible home retrofits, more flexible zoning for additional dwelling units, and stronger community support services. It also tracks migration patterns — revealing that adults 50+ are increasingly choosing to stay in their communities, making local services and public transit essential.
5. Education: Lifelong Learning and Workforce Participation
Education data for adults 50+ is critical for two interconnected reasons: workforce participation and health literacy.
As more people choose to work longer, data on skills training and workforce development is essential for keeping adults 50+ engaged, competitive, and financially secure. Educational attainment is also one of the strongest predictors of health outcomes and longevity — helping policymakers identify who needs the most support and where to direct resources.