ABSTRACT
TheUnited Nations projects that between the years 2000 and 2050, the number of individuals over 65 years of age will exceed 1.1 billion worldwide. In the United States, the aged segment of the population is growing more rapidly than any other segment. Today, over 35 million Americans are estimated to be 65 years and older and by the year 2030, older adults will represent over 20% of the population (Katzman & Fox, 1999). Not only is the older population increasing but the elderly also are living longer, and currently more than 3 million Americans are over 85 years of age. These extended longevity rates and growing numbers of older adults in our society have resulted in a significant increase in research focusing on this population.
