The proportion of older adults in the United States is growing at an unprecedented rate. By 2050, Americans aged 65 or older may number nearly 89 million (more than double their number in 2010). The rapid aging of the U.S. population is being driven by two realities: Americans are living longer lives and the post-World War II baby boom has resulted in proportionately more older adults. The aging of our population has wide-ranging implications for virtually every facet of American society, including public health, housing and community needs, and family development.
The NIFA Division of Family and Consumer Science (DFCS), in partnership with the land-grant universities, is committed to addressing priority issues related to older adults through research, education, and Extension. Together, through this unique partnership, resources are made available to meet the educational and decision-making needs of older adults, their families, and those who care for them.
Research
DFCS provides national leadership and administrative oversight for projects that involve integrated, potentially interdisciplinary, and multistate activities that focus on adult development and aging. Currently, the following programs haves a multi-state focus:
- Preventing Financial Exploitation of Older Adults (W-2191 | 2012-2017)
- Examining Elder Family Financial Exploitation to Inform Prevention Education
- Elder Financial Exploitation: Family Risk and Protective Factors
- Aging in Place: Home and Community in Rural America
Education and Extension
DFCS strengthens the reach of knowledge gain and skills learned by individuals by promoting community-based programs delivered through the Cooperative Extension System that focus on adult development and aging. Programs are intended to assist individuals in making informed decisions and contribute to lifestyles. Priority areas of focus are:
- Aging in Place
- Elder Abuse
- Family Caregiving
- Succession Planning
- Social Isolation