Aging of the Population
The population in the U.S. and Virginia is aging, with the National median age rising from 30 in 1990 to 35 in 2000. According to the 2000 Census, the median age in Newport News is 32. Those age 85 and older are the fastest growing segment of the population, increasing the need for in-home, community-based and institutional support. Newport News remains an attractive place for retirees. Ten percent of the City's population is over 65 and 17 percent is over 55. While these retirees and senior citizens are financially stable, an aging population makes specific demands on the support services system. One percent of housing assistance within the City has been set aside to specifically target senior citizens and other special needs populations (See Chapter 7, Housing). Five residential developments for senior citizens have been constructed or expanded in the City since 2000 to accommodate this growing population.