Concussion Care for Older Adults and Seniors

Download the guide to learn how to provide concussion care to older adults and seniors from the initial assessment to returning them to their everyday activities.

Demographics: Older Adults in the U.S.

16% of Americans are age 65 and older, which is approximately 56 million people, or 1 in 6 Americans. They make up more than 25% of physician visits, 35% of all hospital stays, and 34% of all prescriptions.
 
The number of individuals aged 65 and older is growing, partly as a result of declining death rates. In the population aged 65 and older, approximately 56% are women. Baby Boomers are one of the largest generations in the U.S. and by 2030 all will be 65 or older, which equates to 1 in 5 Americans, or approximately 73 million people. Older adults are projected to outnumber children for the first time in U.S. history.
 
As the older population grows larger, it will also become more diverse. Programs and services for older adults will need to address the needs of a more diverse population, placing greater demands on the healthcare system.

Based on a presentation given by Dr. Christina B. Kunec, PsyD, Director at Stamford Health Concussion Center, at the 2021 Concussion Care Virtual Conference.