NC in Focus: Population Aging

“Transportation for America’s recent report, “Aging in Place: Stuck Without Options,” shows that as we grow too old to drive safely, alternative transportation options are a necessity but often hard to find. Based on recent surveys, 88 percent of older adults continue to drive at age 65, but that percentage drops to 69 percent by age 75. This means that by age 75, 31 percent of seniors must seek alternative ways to get around.

…the not-so-distant future also includes a vastly growing and tech-savvy senior population that wants to remain mobile and have choices.”– Paul Supawanich, “Why Ridesharing Is a Way Bigger Deal for Suburban Seniors Than Urban Millennials” from the Atlantic Cities

Where did North Carolina’s 65 and older population grow between 2000 and 2010? Nearly everywhere. The largest increases occurred in retirement enclaves in Brunswick and New Hanover counties on the coast and Transylvania and Henderson to the west; parts of eastern North Carolina; and in suburban areas in the state’s major metropolitan regions.