Older (White) Americans Live Longer, Larger

Americans over age 65 have better financial security, are better educated and expected to live far longer than ever, a study finds—but huge gaps remain between results for whites and those for blacks and Latinos. "The life expectancy gap between whites and blacks has narrowed but is still large," a researcher tells Reuters. "There is a big wealth gap between whites and blacks."

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The report forecasts that by 2030, the number of Americans over 65 will nearly double to 71.5 million, or 20% of population. Seniors' average net worth has increased almost 80% over the past 20 years—as has their weight: 37% of 65- to 74-year-old women are obese. And US life expectancy remains lower than in many other high-income countries. (Read more elderly stories.)