Our Blog | IKONA Health

Overview

Twenty-five percent of Americans are predicted to be 65 or older by 2030 (U.S. Census). The overwhelming majority of these baby boomers (approximately 90%) aim to age-in-place. Interestingly, these numbers drop significantly when physical and mental deterioration sets in. In a recent LeadingAge survey, 40% of baby boomers said they wanted to live somewhere other than the place they currently call home if they had a physical disability impacting their day-to-day lives, and 70% want to be in a staffed senior care facility if they have dementia and need help with daily activities. These statistics are telling and suggest a growing need for senior care professionals. Between 2016 and 2026, the direct care workforce is expected to grow from 4.4 million to 5.8 million--an increase of 30%. This places a heavy burden on staffed senior care facilities to recruit, onboard and train direct care workers to meet the complex needs of seniors.

Twenty-five percent of Americans are predicted to be 65 or older by 2030 (U.S. Census) and this demographic will outnumber those 18 and younger by 2035. Physical, emotional and cognitive changes associated with normal aging place an enormous emotional and financial burden on the senior, their family and the healthcare system. Studies show that as many as 13% of home care recipients experience an adverse event, may of which are preventable.