CT Home Care Industry

July 27, 2025

Aging Population & Demographic Changes in Connecticut

Connecticut is undergoing significant demographic shifts characterized by a rapidly aging population and stagnant overall growth. As one of the oldest states in the nation, with a median age of 41.1, Connecticut ranks seventh in terms of age compared to the national median of 38.2. This trend is driven by longer life expectancies, the aging of the baby boomer generation, and low birth rates coupled with outmigration of younger residents. The state's life expectancy stands at 80.8 years, the third highest in the U.S., with variations across racial groups: 89.1 years for Asian Americans, 83.1 for Latinos, 81.0 for Whites, and 77.8 for African Americans. These changes pose both opportunities and challenges for policy, economy, and social services.

Current Demographic Profile

As of 2025, Connecticut's total population is approximately 3.6 million, with nearly 885,046 residents aged 60 and older, representing 24.5% of the population—an increase from 23% in previous years. About 629,108 individuals are 65 or older, accounting for 17.4% of the state, slightly above the national average of 16.53%. The older population is diversifying: 84.8% identify as White, 6.7% as Hispanic, 5.9% as other races, 2.6% as Asian, and 6.7% as African American/Black. Additionally, 15% of older adults speak a language other than English at home, and 17.5% of those 65 and older identify as people of color. Around 27.7% of older adults live alone, and 13.4% are veterans.

Historical and Projected Growth Trends

Between 2010 and 2020, Connecticut's overall population grew by just 0.9%, but the proportion of residents aged 65 and older increased by 1.6%. The retirement-age population has grown faster than the national average, even surpassing states like Florida in recent years. Projections indicate that from 2010 to 2040, the population aged 65 and older will grow by 57%, while the working-age group (20-64) will increase by less than 2%. By 2030, those 65 and older are expected to make up at least 20% of the population, a 43.2% increase from 2016 levels. The 85-and-older segment is projected to more than double by 2040, with the state already shouldering a disproportionate share of older residents. By 2025, older adults are anticipated to comprise at least 20% of the population in nearly every town, except those with large student populations like Mansfield and New Haven.

Causes of Demographic Changes

Several factors contribute to these shifts, including the aging of baby boomers, who are living longer due to medical advancements and better healthcare. Low birth rates and net outmigration of younger people have led to population stagnation, with declines in the white population exacerbating the trend. Among age groups, the 65+ category has been the fastest growing between 2010 and 2022. Additionally, the older adult population is becoming more racially and ethnically diverse, with the share identifying as minorities projected to rise from 25% to 40% by 2050. Economic factors, such as workforce aging—where the segment 75 and older is expected to grow by 96.5% from 2020 to 2030—also play a role.

Impacts and Challenges

The growing aging population strains resources, particularly in healthcare, housing, and long-term care. Connecticut has high rates of chronic conditions among older adults, including hip fractures, Alzheimer's disease (affecting 14%), osteoporosis, and various cancers. Health disparities persist: Black and Hispanic older adults face higher rates of diabetes, chronic kidney disease, and dual eligibility for Medicare and Medicaid. Social isolation affects 27.7% living alone, worsened by the COVID-19 pandemic, which caused 13,150 deaths and long-term mental health impacts. Economic challenges include 8.6% of those 65+ living below poverty, rising costs for housing (33% pay over 35% of income), and workforce shortages in care services. Housing affordability and transportation access, especially in rural areas, compound these issues.

State Responses and Future Outlook

Connecticut's State Plan on Aging for 2024-2027 outlines goals to address these trends, including empowering community-based living through long-term services, promoting healthy aging via evidence-based programs, and protecting elder rights against abuse and exploitation. Strategies focus on equity, caregiver support, and addressing gaps in services for diverse populations, including those with limited English proficiency and in rural areas. With projections showing continued growth in the older population, the state aims to foster age-friendly innovations while tackling health inequities and resource limitations. Ongoing efforts by organizations like the Connecticut Legislative Commission on Aging seek to ensure independence and dignity for all residents.

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