Senior Life in Alaska

Alaska has fewer residents age 65 and older (6.8%) as compared to the national average of 12.4%. This is from the 2006 census report. However, the need for assisted living in Alaska is growing, and there are challenges. Due to the geographic complexity of the state, assisted living may not be as accessible to many of the seniors living in outlying areas. The Population of Alaskans 65 years and older is expected to grow by 5% to 6% annually from 2008 to 2020.

Economy:

Alaska has the fourth highest median household income in the country, due mostly to the fact that it is a top oil and natural gas producer. The state accounts for 20 percent of domestic oil production and derives 80 percent of its revenues from the resource. Production peaked in 1988 though, and has since fallen by 65 percent. Thanks to an abundance of protected natural wilderness, the tourism is now the second biggest private employer in Alaska, and is a billion dollar industry.

Noteworthy:

Alaska was purchased from the Russian Empire in 1867 at a cost of about 2 cents per acre, but didn't become a state until 1959.