So says no less a source than the US Census Bureau. In a report out recently the Bureau estimates that “People aged 65 and over will soon outnumber children under the age of 5 for the first time in history.” (You can read a shorter recap of the report here.)

Aging is a global phenomenon. People aged 80 and older are the fastest growing portion of the total population in many countries. As the ratio of workers to pensioners shrinks, while simultaneously people spend a larger portion of their lives in retirement, the demands on the overall health and pension system systems in many countries are severly strained.

There is no easy answer to this problem. But one solution that has been well documented is that preventative care is MUCH more cost effective in the long run. And what is one of the most important parts of health for a human being? Staying connected. People who are connected to family, friends, and their communities are much healthier and happier.

The current retirement system in the US (and worldwide) treats older people as a largely passive audience. But as we see everyday at MyWay Village, seniors have the desire and ability to learn new things and stay connected. And they have a strong sense of purpose. Too many memories, stories, and wisdom pass every day. Through our web-based portal and team of Ambassadors, we help seniors record their insights to share with others, especially family who can’t always be there in person.

The face of aging in this country (and the world) is changing. We at MyWay Village believe technology and connections will soon become an integral–and essential–part of life for older adults.