The percent Black of the total elderly population also would increase during the coming decades. The proportion elderly within each of the four major race groups and the Hispanic origin population is expected to substantially increase during the first half of the 21st century. The proportion elderly varies among the 50 States and the District of Columbia. In 1993, the most populous States were also the ones with the largest number of elderly. Of all the States, Florida had by far the highest proportion elderly, almost 19 percent.
Heart disease is the leading killer of the elderly.
These three major causes of death still were responsible for 7 of every 10 elderly deaths in 1991. Among major disease groups, heart disease is the leading cause of death within the elderly population. The total number of deaths due to heart disease in 1991 was about the same as in 1980, at just under 600,000. The need for personal assistance with everyday activities increases with age. The extent of the need for personal assistance with everyday activities is an indicator of the need for health and social services.