Eldercare, as defined in the book Growing Old in America, is "the process of caring for an older person in order that he or she may remain as independent as possible for as long as possible. In the United States of America in 1998, approximately 34.4 million people were over the age of 65 (12.7% of the population). By the year 2050, that number is expected to increase to 23%, according to the Census Bureau. More than 40% of hospital stays and 20% of physician expenses are incurred by the elderly. As older individuals become unable to live independently or care for themselves without assistance, eldercare often becomes a difficult emotional and financial issue for them and their loved ones.

Aging in America

According to the U.S. Administration on Aging (AoA), since 1900, the number of people 65 years of age and older increased from 4.1% of the population (or 3.1 million) to 12.7% in 1998 (34.4 million). In addition, the elderly...