Posit a bell shaped curve describing the population of those over 60. Posit on the left those 16-20% who are chronically ill, decrepit of mind or body, needy of much assistance. Picture in the middle the 60% or so who are doing fine, the ones society effuses over as healthy and “still sharp.” Then turn your attention to the 16-20% on the farther curve: these let us call elders.
:- Doug.
