Health Facts

CMS 2007 Profile on Older Americans

2006 U.S. Population Estimates by Age

New Lewin Study Shows Dramatic Shift in Nursing Home Use
Research Shows "Oldest Old" Making Different Choices

Over the past 20 years, a significant number of senior citizens, particularly among the “oldest old” – persons 85 and older - have been choosing to stay in their homes rather than move to nursing homes, according to a new study by The Lewin Group.

The full report on this latest research by The Lewin Group was released at a news conference by Lisa Alecxih, Vice President at The Lewin Group, on Tuesday, November 21 at 10:00 am ET . The report takes an in-depth look at trends among America 's large and growing senior population.

If you need more information, please contact Pat McMurray at patricia.mcmurray@bm.com.

Please click here for a copy of the full report. A digital video and transcript of the news conference will be available on the Lewin website within 24 hours after the news conference.

Older Americans Update 2006 Report

The report titled Older Americans Update 2006: Key Indicators of Well-Being has been released. The report is an effort of the Federal Interagency Forum on Age-Related Statistics. It contains information on 37 key indicators that portray aspects of the lives of older Americans and their families. Information on the report and data in the report can be accessed at the following internet address: http://www.agingstats.gov/default.htm .

Flu season is here!

The fact is that out of the average 36,000 people in the U.S. who die each year from influenza and complications of the virus, greater than 90 percent of deaths occur in persons 65 years of age and older. You can help your patients overcome these odds and their personal barriers through patient education. Talk to your patients about the importance of getting their annual flu shot -- and don't forget to immunize yourself and your staff. Protect yourself, your patients, and your family and friends. Get Your Flu Shot. Influenza vaccination is a covered Part B benefit. Note that influenza vaccine is NOT a Part D covered drug. For more information about Medicare's coverage of adult immunizations and educational resources, go to CMS's website at: http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0667.pdf .

Comparing Long Term Care Settings – The Potential for and Cost of Discharging Nursing Facility Residents to Home and Community-Based Care