Introduction

Aging is a universal and inevitable physiological process experienced by all living organisms as part of the natural cycle of life. In the United States, a substantial portion of the populationthose born between 1946 and 1964, commonly referred to as the Baby Boomers is projected to become the largest and most rapidly expanding demographic group. This generation has lived through pivotal moments in American history, including the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the Moon Landing, and numerous other defining social and technological milestones.

Baby Boomers, born in the post–World War II era, are generally well-educated, resourceful, and deeply invested in maintaining their overall health. Their strong emphasis on wellness extends to oral health, as many seek to preserve their natural dentition well into later life. This growing commitment underscores an increasing demand for dental professionals particularly those with advanced training and expertise in geriatric dentistry who can provide comprehensive, patient-centered care tailored to the unique needs of older adults.¹¹

Also referred to as the ‘Aging Tsunami,’ about 62 million people are over the age of 65 years comprising 18% of the U.S. population today.¹² This percentage is expected to swell to 23% by 2054 which is around 84 million older adults .¹³ Furthermore, persons aged 80 years and older also represent the fastest-growing age group in this country.¹⁴ Amid this mountainous rise of retirees, there is also a humongous task for governments to provide optimal healthcare for medical and dental co-morbidities. Considering it, the federal government has come up with strategic framework outlined for healthy aging and age inclusive communities. The report includes contributions from eight HHS divisions, as well as the U.S. Departments of: Agriculture, Housing and Urban Development, Labor, Transportation, and Veterans Affairs; the Social Security Administration; and AmeriCorps.