Senior Citizens in New Jersey: Demographic Shifts and Regional Breakdown
New Jersey’s senior population has been growing steadily over the past several decades as the baby boomer generation ages and life expectancy continues to rise. This increase has significant implications for the state’s healthcare system, housing, social services, and overall economy. In this article, we’ll explore the current percentage of senior citizens in New Jersey, how this demographic has changed over time, and identify the counties and municipalities with the highest concentrations of older adults.
Current Percentage of Seniors in New Jersey
As of the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau and state statistics, approximately 17% of New Jersey's total population is aged 65 or older. This is roughly in line with national trends, where the percentage of senior citizens has also been on the rise. In numbers, New Jersey is home to around 1.5 million senior citizens. As of the latest available data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 1.6 million people in New Jersey are enrolled in Medicare (which includes individuals aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with disabilities), accounting for about 18% of the state's total population.
How New Jersey’s Senior Population Has Changed Over Time
The percentage of senior citizens in New Jersey has grown considerably over the past few decades. According to historical data:
In 1990, only about 12% of the state’s population was 65 or older.
By 2010, this number had increased to 13.5%.
In the 2020 Census, it reached approximately 17%, reflecting the aging of the baby boomer generation (those born between 1946 and 1964), which has played a key role in driving this demographic shift.
This increase in the senior population has been driven by several factors:
Longer Life Expectancy: Advances in healthcare and better living conditions have extended life expectancy. The average life expectancy in New Jersey is now around 80 years, higher than the national average.
Baby Boomer Retirement: The baby boomer generation has significantly contributed to the rise in the senior population as they began reaching retirement age starting in 2011.
Lower Birth Rates: As younger populations have fewer children, the proportion of elderly individuals naturally rises within the overall population.
Counties with the Highest Numbers and Percentages of Senior Citizens New Jersey’s senior population is not evenly distributed across the state. Certain counties, particularly those with suburban and rural characteristics, have higher concentrations of older adults. According to the most recent census data, the counties with the highest numbers and percentages of seniors are: 1. Ocean County
Percentage of Population 65+: 24%
Total Seniors: Over 145,000 Ocean County has one of the highest percentages of seniors in the state, particularly in communities like Toms River and Lakewood. The county’s popularity with retirees stems from its coastal location and the presence of numerous senior living communities such as Leisure Village and Holiday City.
2. Cape May County
Percentage of Population 65+: 26%
Total Seniors: Around 27,000 Cape May County, a major tourist destination, is home to a large retiree community. Its relatively small population gives it a higher percentage of seniors, as many are drawn to the area’s scenic beaches and relaxed lifestyle.
3. Atlantic County
Percentage of Population 65+: 19%
Total Seniors: Over 52,000 Atlantic County, which includes towns like Atlantic City and Egg Harbor, has a growing senior population. The county offers a blend of suburban and coastal living, which appeals to retirees.
4. Bergen County
Percentage of Population 65+: 17%
Total Seniors: Around 154,000 Bergen County, located in northern New Jersey near New York City, has a high number of seniors due to its large population. While the percentage of seniors is lower compared to Ocean County, the overall number is significant due to its population density.
5. Monmouth County
Percentage of Population 65+: 18%
Total Seniors: Over 122,000 Monmouth County’s senior population has grown in recent years as older adults seek out the area’s coastal communities and suburban lifestyle. Towns like Middletown and Freehold have large numbers of retirees.
Municipalities with the Highest Percentages of Seniors
Some municipalities in New Jersey have even higher concentrations of senior citizens, often due to the presence of retirement communities or senior-oriented developments. 1. Manchester Township (Ocean County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 50% Manchester Township has one of the highest concentrations of seniors in New Jersey, largely due to the presence of retirement communities like Leisure Knoll, Renaissance at Manchester, and Crestwood Village.
2. Berkeley Township (Ocean County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 41% Berkeley Township, home to Holiday City and Silver Ridge senior communities, has a large percentage of elderly residents, making it one of the top destinations for retirees in New Jersey.
3. Long Beach Township (Ocean County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 33% Long Beach Township is a popular destination for retirees looking to live in a coastal environment. Its scenic beaches and quieter lifestyle attract a significant number of seniors.
4. Cape May City (Cape May County)
Percentage of Population 65+: 30% The city of Cape May is not just a popular vacation spot, but also home to a high percentage of senior residents who appreciate its historic charm and proximity to the ocean.
Implications of a Growing Senior Population
The rise in New Jersey’s senior population presents both challenges and opportunities.
Healthcare Demand: With more seniors in the state, the demand for healthcare services, particularly in areas such as geriatric care, home health services, and long-term care, is expected to increase significantly.
Housing: There has been a growing demand for age-restricted housing communities, assisted living, and nursing homes. Urban planners and developers will need to continue adapting to these needs.
Social Services: Counties and municipalities with high percentages of senior citizens will need to expand services related to transportation, nutrition, and recreational activities geared toward this demographic.
Economic Impact: A growing senior population also affects the state’s workforce and economy. With many seniors on fixed incomes, there may be more pressure on public resources and less contribution to the state’s tax base.
As the population of senior citizens continues to grow in New Jersey, an array of public and private resources is available to meet the diverse needs of older adults. These resources aim to improve the quality of life for seniors by providing assistance with healthcare, housing, nutrition, social engagement, and more. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key public and private resources that are available to New Jersey’s senior population. Many of these programs are coordinated through state agencies, local municipalities, and federal assistance programs.
New Jersey Division of Aging Services (DoAS)
The New Jersey Division of Aging Services (DoAS) is the state’s primary agency focused on senior care. It offers a wide variety of services, including:
Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC): This provides seniors and caregivers with information on local services, including home care, transportation, and meal services.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP): SHIP counselors assist seniors in understanding Medicare, Medicaid, and supplemental health insurance plans. This free service helps navigate complex healthcare systems and options.
Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD): This program provides financial assistance for prescription medications to qualified New Jersey seniors.
2. Medicaid and Medicare Medicaid and Medicare play a critical role in providing healthcare support for seniors.
Medicaid: Provides health coverage for low-income seniors, helping with the cost of medical care, prescriptions, and long-term care services.
Medicare: A federal health insurance program for people aged 65 and older, covering hospital stays, medical care, and certain preventive services.
3. Meals on Wheels Meals on Wheels is a federally funded program that offers home-delivered meals to seniors who are homebound and unable to prepare their own meals. In New Jersey, various local chapters provide nutritious meals, check-ins, and social interaction.
4. Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) This program provides low-income seniors with coupons that can be used to purchase fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and honey at approved farmers' markets. It aims to improve the nutritional intake of seniors and support local agriculture.
5. Property Tax Reimbursement Program (Senior Freeze) The Property Tax Reimbursement Program, also known as the Senior Freeze, reimburses eligible seniors for property tax increases on their homes. This financial relief allows seniors to maintain affordable living conditions even as property taxes rise.
Private Resources for Seniors in New Jersey In addition to the extensive public programs available to seniors in New Jersey, there are also a variety of private resources that provide vital services. These range from non-profits to private businesses that cater to the needs of aging residents.
1. Assisted Living and Independent Living Communities Private senior living communities, including assisted living facilities and independent living complexes, offer a variety of care levels depending on the senior’s needs. Some popular options in New Jersey include:
Brandywine Living: Offers assisted living with on-site healthcare, activities, and specialized memory care services.
Brightview Senior Living: Provides independent and assisted living, as well as dementia care services.
These communities often provide tailored services such as personal care, meal plans, social activities, and transportation. 2. Private In-Home Care Agencies Many seniors prefer to remain in their homes, and private in-home care agencies offer services to help them do so safely and comfortably. Agencies such as Visiting Angels and Home Instead provide personal care, companionship, housekeeping, and medical assistance. These services are typically paid for privately or through long-term care insurance policies. 3. Nonprofit Organizations Numerous nonprofit organizations support seniors in New Jersey by offering various services at little or no cost. These organizations provide everything from healthcare assistance to social engagement activities.
AARP New Jersey: AARP advocates for senior rights and provides educational resources, including information on health, wellness, and financial planning.
The Jewish Federation of Greater MetroWest New Jersey: Provides comprehensive services to seniors, including homecare, transportation, and assistance with managing chronic health conditions.
4. Private Transportation Services
While public transportation options exist, private transportation services often provide more flexibility and personalized care. Companies like Uber Health or Lyft can be utilized for non-emergency medical appointments, grocery trips, or social outings, ensuring seniors maintain their independence. 5. Elder Law Attorneys
Private elder law attorneys specialize in areas such as estate planning, wills, and navigating Medicaid. These attorneys help seniors and their families protect their assets and ensure their long-term care plans are legally sound.
These websites offer a wide range of support and information for senior citizens in New Jersey, making it easier to access the healthcare, housing, legal, and other resources needed to lead fulfilling lives.Government Websites
Purpose: Provides information and services related to healthcare, housing, nutrition, and senior care assistance. It also offers access to programs like the Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) and the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).
Purpose: The official U.S. government site for Medicare, offering information about health coverage, enrollment, benefits, and claims for those aged 65 and older.
Purpose: Provides information and eligibility criteria for Medicaid services, including long-term care and healthcare support for low-income seniors in New Jersey.
Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD)
Purpose: Offers resources for finding affordable housing, senior housing options, and rental assistance programs for low- to moderate-income senior citizens.
Property Tax Reimbursement Program (Senior Freeze)
Purpose: Provides resources, advocacy, and information on topics like healthcare, financial security, and senior services. AARP New Jersey also offers events and social engagement opportunities for seniors.
Purpose: A private in-home care agency offering personal care, companionship, and specialized senior services to help seniors age in place comfortably.
Purpose: A commercial site offering guides to senior living communities, independent and assisted living options, and memory care facilities across New Jersey.
Purpose: A free and confidential resource that connects seniors and caregivers to local social services, including housing assistance, transportation, healthcare, and financial aid.
Purpose: Offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care services across several locations in New Jersey.
These websites offer a wide range of support and information for senior citizens in New Jersey, making it easier to access the healthcare, housing, legal, and other resources needed to lead fulfilling lives.
websites that provide directories of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult communities in New Jersey: 1. New Jersey Department of Health – Nursing Home Compare
Official state website with directory of nursing homes and other long-term care facilities in New Jersey, including detailed inspection reports and facility ratings.
A federal government tool that allows users to compare nursing homes based on quality ratings, services offered, and patient satisfaction. This directory includes nursing homes in New Jersey.
A commercial site that offers a comprehensive directory of nursing homes, assisted living facilities, memory care, and independent living communities across New Jersey. It also provides personalized recommendations based on user needs.
Nationwide directory of nursing homes, assisted living, and independent living communities, including a detailed search option for New Jersey facilities.
Directory of 55+ active adult communities in New Jersey, includes information on age-restricted communities, amenities, and housing options for active seniors looking for independent living.
A directory of assisted living facilities, including nursing homes and senior living communities in New Jersey. The site offers guides and resources for choosing the right care.