The Changing Face of Aging
"Forty is the old age of youth. Fifty is the youth of old age." ~ Victor Hugo
At the turn of the last century in the United States, life expectancy was roughly 47 years of age. In the year 2000, it was about 78 years of age.
As people live longer, there is an emergence of a midphase of eldering in which they are remaining active and involved, enjoying a vigorous midcourse between adulthood and old age.
Senior centers around the country are hubs for those in this lengthening transition.
Centers not only offer programs and services covering both ends of the aging spectrum, but camaraderie among those in between who seek community, usefulness and purpose.
Statistics on the size of the over 55 group vary, but it is estimated that in the year 2000 about 12% of the population of this country were midphase seniors. By the year 2030 that number is expected to climb to about 20% of the total population.
According to AARP, older Americans no longer see retirement as an endless vacation, but as an active, engaged phase of life that includes work, public service and personal creativity.
Senior Services of Island County
Operated and staffed by welcoming, compassionate individuals, SSIC is dedicated to serving the needs of seniors at each phase of ripening.
For easy reference regarding what we offer, please see our Quick Links
