September 2026

A 2018 blog post sets a stage for comparison with today.  Perusing this 8-year-old screed, one might think that a comparison with 2026 tech for older adults would show vast improvement – both in the tech-enabled wellbeing of today’s oldest, as well as a dramatic improvement in the tech itself. But consider the observation by a Duke researcher: "Tech has the potential to help preserve independence…Ultimately we want nursing homes to disappear. We want people to live peacefully in their own home." Hmmm. Luckily that Wall Street Journal Supplement is no longer available and the Duke researcher cannot be embarrassed. Nursing homes did not disappear.  As of last year, there were 15,000 certified nursing homes in the US, serving 1.2 million people, including Medicare-funded rehabilitation services, as well as Medicaid-funded care for older adults and people with disabilities

Longevity expectations can mislead or inform.  Today’s life expectancy chart for 2026 notes an increase of life expectancy at birth to 79.  Of course, that is a silly number to mention among the 65+ population which can expect to live into their mid-80s. And the physical condition they are in varies all over the map. You notice the very frail in their 80s walking carefully with a cane or walker.  You also see people in their late 80s jumping up and down in a water aerobics class. Or people in their 70s and beyond lifting heavy weights. But individuals with Parkinson's or arthritis can still live into their 80s, although their mobility and health may be compromised.