Getting to Know Americans Age 50+

This six-part series of fact sheets aims to provide readers with quick facts on a variety of topics related to the lives of Americans age 50+. 

Topics include the following: 

• Demographics

There are over 104 million adults age 50 and over in the US. This fact sheet explores the latest demographic trends among older adults including education, ethnicity, work status, and income. 

• Interests & Entertainment

Nearly 9 in 10 adults watch cable television at least weekly. This fact sheet discusses trends in entertainment, restaurants, sports, and events among adults age 50+. 

• Home & Shopping

Sixty-six percent (66%) of Americans age 50+ spend $100 or more a week on groceries. This fact sheet discusses trends among older Americans in shopping, automobiles, and eco-friendly activities at home.

• Health and Healthcare

A third of Americans age 50+ have been treated in an emergency room in the past three years. This fact sheet discusses health trends among older Americans.

• Technology

Smartphones, tablets, and e-reader adoption continues to climb among Americans age 50+. This fact sheet explores the latest technology trends among older adults including adoption rates, online activities, and attitudes toward technology.

• Finance

Although nearly half of Americans age 50-64 say they are in excellent or good financial shape, many admit their income is falling behind the cost of living. This final fact sheet discusses older Americans’ financial situation as well as their use of financial products and confidence in their retirement savings.

For more information, contact G. Oscar Anderson at ganderson@aarp.org.

Suggested Citation:

Anderson, G. Oscar. Getting to Know Americans Age 50+. Washington, DC: AARP Research, December 2014. https://doi.org/10.26419/res.00091.000