The Expanding 85+ Demographic
While specific real-time data for the 'over 84' population is often grouped into broader categories like '85 and older,' official sources from the U.S. Census Bureau provide valuable insights. In 2020, approximately 6.3 million Americans were aged 85 and above, making up about 1.9% of the total U.S. population. However, this is one of the fastest-growing age segments in the country. The number of adults aged 85 and older is projected to more than double between 2022 and 2040, rising from 6.5 million to 13.7 million.
This rapid growth is largely due to increasing life expectancy and the aging of the Baby Boomer generation, with all Boomers expected to be over 65 by 2030. The significant expansion of the 'oldest old' population, which includes those over 84, has far-reaching consequences for families, healthcare, and social services.
Historical and Projected Growth
The increase in the oldest age groups is a long-standing trend. Historical data shows a dramatic rise in the 85-and-older population. For example, the number of Americans in this group has grown by 232% since 1960, a rate significantly faster than the total population growth of 39% over the same period.
Looking forward, population projections indicate this trend will continue. The Congressional Budget Office projects that the U.S. population will grow and age in the coming decades. By 2040, it is projected that about 22% of the U.S. population will be 65 or older. Within that group, the proportion of the very old will become even more pronounced. After 2050, all Baby Boomers will be older than 85, further swelling the ranks of this demographic.
Key Factors Driving the Rise of the 'Oldest Old'
Several factors contribute to the significant growth in the population over 84. These include:
- Increasing Life Expectancy: Improvements in medical care, public health, and nutrition have extended the average lifespan for Americans.
- Aging of the Baby Boomer Generation: As this large cohort moves into their senior years, they dramatically increase the number of people in older age brackets.
- Declining Fertility Rates: Lower birth rates mean that older cohorts represent a larger share of the overall population.
- Decreased Mortality Rates: Advanced medicine and better living conditions mean more people are living to older ages than ever before, with the 85+ group being the fastest-growing segment.
Regional Differences and Gender Disparities
The distribution of the oldest age groups is not uniform across the United States. In 2020, states in the Northeast and Midwest tended to have a higher percentage of people aged 85 and older. States like Florida, Hawaii, and Pennsylvania also showed higher proportions, while states such as Utah and Alaska had lower percentages. This variation can be attributed to several factors, including internal migration patterns.
There is also a notable gender disparity among the oldest age brackets. Women significantly outnumber men in these groups. Among the 85+ age group in 1990, women outnumbered men by two to one, a trend that persists. A study by Visual Capitalist in 2025 noted that women substantially outnumbered men among those aged 91 and older, at 1.3 million compared to 0.7 million.
Impact on Society
The aging of the U.S. population, particularly the growth of the over-84 segment, has profound societal implications. These include increased demand for healthcare services, long-term care, and elder care facilities. The rise of the 'oldest old' also affects social security and Medicare, highlighting the need for robust public and private support systems. On a family level, it increases the number of middle-aged and older people caring for very frail and elderly parents.
Comparison Table: Older Population Demographics
| Age Group | Number (in millions, approx.) | Year | Percentage of U.S. Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 85 and older | 6.3 | 2020 | ~1.9% | |
| 85 and older | 6.5 | 2022 | N/A | |
| 85 and older (projected) | 13.7 | 2040 | N/A | |
| 65 and older | 55.8 | 2020 | 16.8% | |
| 65 and older | 57.8 | 2022 | 17.3% | |
| 65 and older (projected) | >78 | 2040 | ~22% |
Conclusion
The percentage of the US population over 84 is a growing, yet still relatively small, segment of the total population. However, when considering the larger group of Americans aged 85 and older, it is clear that this demographic is expanding rapidly. The U.S. Census Bureau and other sources show this growth is set to continue as the Baby Boomer generation enters their later years. This demographic shift is influenced by longer life expectancies, decreased mortality, and changes in birth rates. It carries significant implications for various sectors of society, including healthcare and social services. Staying informed about these demographic changes is crucial for understanding the future needs and dynamics of the American population.
For more information on the aging population and its impact, explore reports from the Administration for Community Living, which provide detailed profiles of older Americans based on Census data.
