Topic: Aging & Inequality: Boomer Generation Readiness
Background or Case Study
As life expectancy increases for the average American, a large population of individuals will soon enter retirement, generally beginning at 65 years of age. “By the year 2050, there will be an estimated 88.5 million people age 65 and older or 20 percent of the total population, as compared to 39.6 million or 16 percent of the total population in 2009” (Kendall, 2012, p. 372). The early stages of this aging population will represent the boomer generation, which includes those who were born in the mid-20th century. As this group enters retirement, certain functions of the U.S. economic and social system will be impacted.
In response to this information, prepare a written essay, which meets the following outcomes:
Is the United States prepared for the aging “boomer” generation, including in the workplace, in social security, and in health care? What is your reasoning?
What areas of the U.S. economic and social systems will have the greatest impact?
What policies or strategies would help alleviate the burden of this incoming retirement population?
Cited: Kendall, D. (2012). Sociology in our times (9th edition). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Publishing Co.
