According to 2020 U.S. Census data, between 2010 and 2020, the American 65-and-over population experienced rapid growth, reaching 55.8 million. The National Institutes of Health reports the population is expected to rise to 88 million by 2050. The rapid aging of the U.S. population is attributed to (i) Americans living longer lives and (ii) the post-World War II baby boom. The aging of the U.S. population has wide-ranging implications for many facets of American society, including public health, housing and community needs, and family development.
USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) in partnership with Land-grant institutions, is committed to addressing priority topics related to older adults through research, education, and Extension. Partners make resources available to meet the educational and decision-making needs of older adults, their families, and those who care for them.
Latest Research
NIFA provides national leadership and administrative oversight for projects that focus on adult development and aging:
- Financial Abuse Within Families
- Improving the Health Span of Aging Adults Through Diet and Physical Activity HATCH Project
Education and Extension
NIFA promotes community-based adult development and aging programs delivered through the Cooperative Extension System. Programs are intended to empower individuals, families, and caregivers to make informed decisions that will ultimately improve the overall well-being of aging adults. Areas of focus are: