Fda and Regulations of Medication

Demographic Paper

Tiearia Fariss

HCS/490

March 20, 2014

Professor Erika Johnson

It is economically correct to state that any baby that is born the life cycle will eventually age the individual. In today’s era the life expectancy for individual is a lot longer due to the advancements in technology, increased knowledge in medicine and treatments available, and the ever growing resources that are available to caregivers. The healthcare industry today has had several changes such as the concern for resources, the possible challenges that are on the rise for the growing elderly population.

Between 1900 and 2000, life expectancy in the U.S increased from 51 to 80 years for women and from 48 to 72 years for men (Population Reference Bureau, 2002). By 2030, it is estimated that 70 million U.S citizens will be over age 65, and 8.5 million Americans will be over age 85 (National Center for Health Statistics, 1999). The ever rising increase of elderly population is causing a higher demand for healthcare services and caregivers.

Chronic disease is expected to increase due to the increasing life expectancy. It is estimated that by 2040, almost 160 million people in the U.S, most of them elderly, will be living with chronic conditions (Population Reference Bureau, 2002). With the increasing life expectancy there is a posed threat with chronic disease because of the patients daily life may be affect as a result. When looking at the increased numbers this could cause an increase in the medical needs for the patient as well as medical costs. If more patients are requiring transition to a nursing home, hospitalization, and regular treatment there will be an increased need for resources such as reasonably affordable and attainable medication and treatment, and education for treatment of illnesses. Many older adult can receive medical assistance with the help of Medicare or Medicaid but this only begins to cover the expenses related to aging. In the event that the...