May has been designated by Governor Michael F. Easley as Older Americans Month in North Carolina. The differences among our aging population compel us to attend to how we might best serve unique ethnic, cultural, generational, geographic and gender-specific interests and needs. North Carolina's population is aging. This issue is relevant in all aspects of our public and private lives.
Government agencies face decisions about the allocation of public resources.
Families must consider living and caregiving arrangements. Business, cultural and other interests must identify and respond to this changing demographic. While many older adults remain active and healthy, there are still many barriers for seniors who live in rural areas, those who do not speak English, those who are illiterate, have limited incomes or face other hurdles. As compared to the nation, North Carolina has a higher percentage of women, minorities and low-income seniors. An estimated 38,000 seniors face the simultaneous effects of being old, minority, female and poor.