Dr. Thomas Jankowski talked with dozens of older adults at The Helm at the Boll Life Center, the leading-edge senior center for residents of the Grosse Pointes' and Harper Woods. The March discussion looked at "The Demographics of the Aging Population," especially challenges and opportunities for Michigan as it responds to this dramatic demographic shift. The event heralded the IOG's return to safe, in-person community engagement when appropriate.

Dr. Jankowski has studied aging and older adults for nearly 30 years. By 2045, nearly 22% of the population will be age 65 and older. This shift will likely lead to dramatic changes in the economic and social fabric of communities and trigger major shifts in services, consumer and labor markets, transportation, health care and leisure outlets. Dr. Jankowski is the IOG's associate director for research.