Wednesday, June 6, 2001

The changing face of Atlanta

May was Older Americans Month and the Atlanta region had a lot to celebrate, according to a recent report from the Atlanta Regional Commission.

Like the nation, the region has been experiencing a growing older population. In fact, between 2010 and 2020, an average of 15,000 people in the Atlanta region are estimated to turn 65 each year.

Moreover, in 2020, the baby boom generation will be age 56 to 74, resulting in a 50 percent increase of the region's 65+ population. This will have a significant impact on the region's economy as well as the housing industry, transportation, social services, health services and long-term care.

As the 2000 census figures are released, ARC is able to gain valuable insight on the region's changing population.

ARC region's age 55+ population grew at a faster rate 1990-2000 (37.7 percent) than did the population as a whole (36.4 percent).

The percentage of growth in Fayette was remarkable: age 55+ increase accounted for 29 percent of the total net county increase from 1990 to 2000.

The 55 and older populations in three counties - Gwinnett, Henry and Fayette - doubled or almost doubled in the last decade.

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