Final answer:
Geriatric care is in high demand due to the aging baby boomer population and medical advancements that prolong life. The Affordable Care Act's expansion of healthcare and the projected increase in need for specialized geriatric care professionals exacerbate this demand further.
Step-by-step explanation:
The demand for geriatric care is increasing primarily due to the aging of the baby boomer population, which includes about 74 million people who are now reaching retirement age. As this population ages, they are likely to experience healthcare issues that are common in older adults, such as heart conditions, arthritis, and Alzheimer's, all of which may necessitate various forms of healthcare services including hospitalization, long-term care, and at-home nursing care. Additionally, advancements in medical technology are extending lifespans, placing further demand on the healthcare system.
Moreover, policies like the Affordable Care Act have expanded access to healthcare services, increasing the demand for medical providers. This coincides with a 45 percent projected increase in demand for geriatric specialists between 2013 and 2025, emphasizing the urgent need for professionals in the field. These factors, together with the potential shortage of healthcare workers due to a smaller workforce and the increased financial burden on the economy from retirement benefits, contribute to the high demand for geriatric care.