Aging Research & Special Topics

Elders at Risk & Growing

Seniors today face greater risks than ever before due to a combination of societal, economic, and health-related factors. The rising cost of living, particularly in housing, healthcare, and long-term care, makes it harder for older adults to maintain financial stability. Many seniors are living longer, increasing the likelihood of chronic illnesses, cognitive decline, and the need for specialized care. Additionally, reduced mobility and limited transportation options can lead to social isolation, which negatively affects mental and physical health. 

Social media and technological advancements, while beneficial in some cases, also creates barriers for seniors who may struggle to access services online. Furthermore, as families become more dispersed, many seniors lack support systems necessary to help them stay independent, safe, and engaged in their communities. 

In 2023 adults 65. and older represented almost 18% of the US population, with 81% of those aged 70-75 owning their own home.  By 2035 The number of adults 65+ is projected to surpass children under 18 as we are witnessing the greying of America. This demographic shift strains healthcare systems, as older adults generally require more medical attention. Additionally, with fewer working-age individuals supporting a growing retired population, economic burdens on social security, pensions, and government-funded programs will increase. 

A shrinking younger workforce could also lead to labor shortages in key industries, including healthcare and caregiving—areas that will be in even greater demand. Furthermore, fewer younger family members available to provide informal care may leave many seniors without adequate support, increasing the need for institutional care and community-based services. Socially, an aging population may also lead to higher rates of isolation, which is linked to mental health challenges and decreased quality of life. 

Addressing these challenges requires proactive planning in healthcare, housing, transportation, and economic policies to ensure that society can adequately support its growing senior population while maintaining balance for younger generations. 

Artificial Intelligence and Aging - 2025 Research & Aging Symposium - In Development

Caring from a Distance 

To include distant family members in the care of an aging loved one, establish open communication channels, clearly define roles based on individual strengths, utilize technology for regular check-ins, and consider assigning specific tasks like managing finances or legal documents to those best equipped to handle them, even if they live far away; this can involve setting up power of attorney or healthcare proxy arrangements to ensure their input in important decisions. 

• Caring from a Distance - Alzheimer’s Association, Link  

Grandparents Raising Children 

The number of grandparents raising grandchildren in the United States has been steadily increasing, primarily due to factors like rising divorce rates, parental substance abuse, incarceration, illness, and death, leading to situations where grandparents need to step in and take on primary caregiver roles for their grandchildren; this trend is often referred to as "grandfamily" care, with a significant portion of these grandparents raising multiple grandchildren simultaneously. 

When planning care for aging seniors who are raising grandchildren, unique needs include: securing legal guardianship, managing the financial strain of additional dependents, accessing specialized healthcare for both the senior and grandchildren, addressing potential trauma experienced by the grandchildren, providing respite care for the senior, and ensuring adequate support for their mental health due to the added stress of parenting later in life; all while considering potential age-related health concerns of the senior caregiver.


Commission on the status of Grandparents Raising Children: A resource to fostering education, networking, research, programs and support to grandparents and all relatives raising grandchildren. Address - 600 Washington St. 6th Boston, MA  - Phone: (617) 748-2454, Email: colleen.pritoni@state.ma.us see more  

• Council of Social Concern: Non-profit organization that operates an early education center with sliding- scale fees, connections with family child care providers, and parenting education classes. Services are based in Woburn but available to Winchester residents. Address - 2 Merrimac St. Woburn, MA  - Phone: (781) 935-6495, Website
• Family Action Network of Winchester - A non-profit with the goal of providing support and resources for parents with young children. Host events for parents and children. Email: info@fanwinchester.org , Website

How to Stay Connected with Grandkids 

Staying connected with grandkids offers numerous benefits for both generations, including stronger family bonds, improved mental and physical health for grandparents, and enhanced emotional support and development for grandchildren. 

• How to Bond with Grandkids - Link 
• How to Connect with Your Grandkids - Link 
• For the Caregiver - How can I keep my parent connected with the grandkids? Let’s Talk About Aging Parents - A Real Life Guide to Solving Problems with 27 Essential Conversations - Part 3 - Love, Loss and Laughs - , by Laura Tamblyn Watts 

Lifelong Learning & Mental Fitness 

• Chapter 3 - Will I Lose My Memory? The Second Fifty, Answers to the 7 Big Questions of MidLife and Beyond, by Debra Whitman Social Media - Benefits and Risks for Seniors 

Social Media can offer homebound seniors an opportunity to connect with family and friends no longer nearby.  Unfortunately like other users, seniors can fall victim to false illusions that other people are happier or more fulfilled than they. For seniors who may be alone and have low self-esteem, this phenomenon can further exacerbate depression and loneliness. 

Seniors using social media also may face risks like scams, identity theft, and privacy breaches, which can be mitigated with education and support. Several organizations provide online resources to avoid risks while taking advantage of the benefits of social media.  These include: 

• 5 Positive Ways to Use Your Social Media for Good, by AARP,Link
• Scam and Fraud Prevention, National Council on Aging, Link
• Scam and Fraud Prevention YouTube Video - Office of Economic Empowerment, Link

Super Agers - 2024 Research & Aging Symposium  - In Development