Clearly, the implications for our healthcare systems and for our entire economic structure are immense. Aging populations are already straining Social Security and Medicare in this country. Worldwide, the “potential support ratio” or the number of people age 15 to 64 who are available as workers to support retirees is shrinking. In 1950, the ratio was 12 to 1; in 2000, it was 9 to 1; by 2050, it may dwindle to 4 to 1.