Trends in the Health of Older Americans, 1970-2005

The health of Americans age sixty-five and older has improved on nearly all major indicators: longevity, self-reported health, and functioning. Both health care services use and health spending have risen. The increased use of restorative procedures and prescription medicines suggests that medical advances have had an important role in the better health of older Americans. Factors that might limit prospects for future improvements include rising rates of obesity and diabetes, particularly among the middle-aged.