Meet Bellevue

Bellevue’s Abundant Aging Population

Posted on 27 June 2010

Data from the 2000 U.S. Census Report (2010 data isn’t in yet) indicates that between 1990 and 2000, the fastest-growing segment of Bellevue’s population was the 75-84 demographic, which grew 126.7%. Second to that was the 85-and-over demographic, which grew 113.5%. If that’s not surprising enough, consider that the next fastest-growing population segment is the 55 to 59 demographic, which grew by only 39.7% in that same timeframe.

In the year 2000, 13% of Bellevue’s population was comprised of senior citizens (those over the age of 65). The 45 to 64 age group made up 25% of Bellevue’s population – but consider that the data is from ten years ago, and you’ll realize a chunk of that group has now moved into the senior citizen demographic. Bellevue actually has a higher percentage of senior citizen residents than comparison cities within King County studied in the 2000 U.S. Census Report, and a smaller percentage of individuals in the 19 to 44 age demographic than most other comparison cities, and King County as a whole.

So what does all this data tell us about senior living in Bellevue? For one, something about the city appeals to the elderly population. Perhaps it’s the fact that it was once a suburb of the bustling city of Seattle, allowing seniors to live a quiet and relaxed retirement but still be near all the excitement offered by a big city. In recent years, however, Bellevue has begun to establish its own identity, with plentiful opportunities for arts appreciation, convenient travel, and great shopping.

As the Baby Boomer population enters its senior years, with the oldest Boomers hitting the 65-mark this year, Bellevue’s already abundant senior population is likely to explode – a fact the 2010 Census Report will confirm. This theme will have a huge impact on Bellevue’s senior housing industry, such as Bellevue Assisted Living facilities, as well as the Bellevue real estate market overall. In the coming weeks, we’ll examine the current status of Bellevue’s senior housing industry, opportunities, and shortcomings that will impact the local economy in the years to come.

Bio:

Chris Rodde is the CEO of SeniorHomes.com, a free resource for people looking for senior housing or senior care for a loved one or themselves. With valuable articles and a comprehensive directory of care options, SeniorHomes.com is the best place to start your search for assisted living, independent living, Alzheimer’s care, a retirement community or home care.