Which factor is most associated with the growing number of elderly people of color?

• A. Higher fertility and immigration rates
• B. Improved life expectancy for all groups
• C. Better healthcare in affluent neighborhoods
• D. Decreased birth rates among majority groups

Answer: (A)

The main concept here is how demographic forces shape who becomes elderly. Higher fertility rates among people of color create larger birth cohorts that will age into later life, expanding the number of older individuals within these groups. Add to that ongoing immigration, which brings in more people of color who will, over time, grow older as well. As these larger and newer cohorts live longer, the elderly population of color increases. While longer life expectancy and better health care can boost longevity for all groups, the strongest link to a rising number of elderly people of color is the combination of higher fertility and persistent immigration feeding larger aging cohorts.