Silver Tsunami: America’s senior population expected to grow to largest amount in history

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET) — There are 8.5 million Californians over the age of 60, according to the California Department of Aging and that number keeps growing. The Silver Tsunami is coming: are you ready?

“People are living longer lives and that’s happening right here in Kern County,” said Susan DeMarois, Director with the California Department of Aging.

DeMarois said the fastest growth among the older population in Kern is the 85 and over population. America’s Baby Boomers will exceed the population of individuals from birth to 18-years-old for the first time in history.

“By the year 2030, 1 in 4 Californians will be 60 or older and the Central Valley is leading that growth,” said DeMarois.

DeMarois said the Silver Tsunami will put a strain on housing, healthcare and nutrition. The Rasmussen Center provides all essential needs, for our most valuable.

“Can’t beat the price, $3 for a lunch meal,” said Charles Flowers, who just turned 84-years-old on June 5.

Hearing postponed for 2 charged in crash that killed sisters

Flowers moved to Bakersfield from Chicago about 40 years ago. For some seniors, the goal is to be independent and stay home longer, but Flowers said he’s here at Rasmussen for the social life.

“Most of all we have live music,” said Flowers. “I get my exercise in by dancing.”

83-year-old Bertha Jarrell came to the Rasmussen Center to escape isolation and fast food.

“If I didn’t come here, I wouldn’t be eating a balanced meal each day,” said Jarrell. “I talked a friend into coming because we both had lost people in our lives. We were living alone and it really was life saving to see what the rest of the world is doing.”

New data by the Pew Research Center shows 10,000 Americans turn 65-years-old everyday. The Silver Tsunami is coming with a wave of Baby Boomers, but heading into your golden years can be the ride of your life.

For more information on services for seniors and caregivers click here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.