The proportion living in a family setting decreased with age. A 1984 study found that 4 of every 5 older persons had living children. The elderly are less likely to change residence than other age groups. The educational level of the older population is increasing. The number of days in which usual activities are restricted because of illness or injury increases with age.
Most older persons have at least one chronic condition and many have multiple conditions.
The average length of a hospital stay was 7.8 days for older people, compared to only 4.9 days for people under 65. The average length of stay for older people has decreased 6.4 days since 1968 and 2.9 days since 1980. Excludes persons of Hispanic origin. Information researched and compiled by Donald G. Fowles, AoA. Production by Felo Madrid, AARP AARP is the nation's leading organization for people age 50 and over. It serves their needs and interests through legislative advocacy, research, informative programs and community services provided by a network of local chapters and experienced volunteers throughout the country.