Absolutely! Utilization of hospice care is increasing as patient preference shifts to receiving end-of-life care in non-acute settings. The aging U.S. population will continue to drive growth in hospice utilization. Seniors over the age of 65 represent 83% of hospice patients. The nation's population continues to age. In 1994, approximately one in eight Americans was age 65 and older. By 2030, one in five Americans will be a senior citizen. From 1960 to 1994, the "oldest" population (persons aged 85 and over) increased by 274% compared with 100% for those 65 and over.