Final answer:
The older adult population in the U.S. is divided into young-old (65-74), middle-old (75-84), and old-old (85+), each facing different life experiences and health issues. These categories help in understanding and responding to the needs of the elderly, especially in healthcare and social policies. Definitions of 'elderly' can vary by physical health and age, with 65 being the commonly accepted starting point in many countries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The United States categorizes its older adult population into three distinct life-stage subgroups to better understand the varying experiences and needs of the elderly. The young-old are those between 65 and 74 years old who generally lead happier and healthier lives, are better prepared financially, and enjoy more resources than previous generations. The middle-old refers to individuals aged 75 to 84, while those aged 85 and above are considered the old-old, who often face more significant health issues and functional impairments despite advancements in medical care that mitigate some effects of chronic diseases.
It's important to differentiate between these groups as they each have unique challenges and characteristics. For example, the prevalence of chronic conditions like arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes increases with age, while the risk of poverty and the level of self-reported excellent or very good health status decreases. On a societal level, these distinctions help in the development of targeted social, medical, and healthcare policies.
Defining what it means to be 'elderly' can vary based on physical health and chronological age. The U.S. government often starts classifying individuals as elderly at the age of 65, marking eligibility for Social Security and Medicare benefits. The World Health Organization acknowledges that most core nations also use the age of 65, but the actual cut-off may vary depending on socio-economic factors in different countries.