Associate Professor Mindy Marks was quoted in Newsweek discussing new U.S. Census Bureau data showing that older adults now outnumber children in 11 states. She explained the demographic forces behind this shift—lower immigration, internal migration, and increased life expectancy—and outlined the potential consequences for the economy, from labor shortages to pressure on programs like Social Security and Medicare.
“Declining fertility will impact society in many ways. Many government programs such as Social Security and Medicare are structured such that current payments for retirees are funded by current workers. As the ratio of retiree to workers changes these programs become financially insolvent. Relatedly, there are workforce issues especially in sectors like health care and nursing homes where demand for labor will outstrip supply resulting in shortages or higher prices. Fewer workers will also reduce economic growth. As the age structure changes companies will have an incentive to market consumer goods and entertainment to an older client-base and we will see more innovation in products targeted to older demographics.”
Mindy Marks quoted in Newsweek “Map Shows 11 States Where Older Americans Outnumber Children” June 26, 2025
