Industry Overview - The global population is aging rapidly, with the number of individuals aged 60 and above surpassing those under five for the first time in 2020, leading to significant implications for healthcare systems and investors [2] - By 2050, nearly 22% of the global population will be over 60, with a significant concentration in low- and middle-income countries [2] - The geriatric care services industry is currently valued at approximately $1.21 trillion and is projected to grow to around $2.12 trillion by 2034, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.4% [3] Market Dynamics - Evolving healthcare utilization patterns due to aging are creating growth opportunities in senior living communities, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living, and post-acute care providers [4] - The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has advanced the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), aimed at providing comprehensive care for seniors [4] Key Players - Major healthcare companies like Boston Scientific, AbbVie, Amgen, and Edwards Lifesciences are actively expanding their presence in the senior and aging demographics [5] - The Ensign Group is expanding its skilled nursing and rehabilitative services, supported by a decentralized management strategy [7] - Healthcare real estate investment trusts (REITs) such as Omega Healthcare Investors and CareTrust REIT are focusing on skilled nursing and senior housing properties [7] Investment Perspective - The senior-care services sector is resilient during economic downturns, providing stable cash flows and making it attractive for long-term investors seeking defensive growth [8] Company Highlights - **Boston Scientific**: Focuses on medical devices for the elderly, including the WATCHMAN device for stroke risk reduction and the SYNERGY bioabsorbable stent system [9][10] - **AbbVie**: Expanding its focus on the aging demographic through strategic partnerships, including the acquisition of Aliada Therapeutics for Alzheimer's treatment [11][12][14] - **Amgen**: Targeting the aging population with innovations in biopharma, including obesity treatments and bone health therapies [15][16] - **Edwards Lifesciences**: Advancing care for aortic stenosis in elderly patients, with significant sales growth in structural-heart solutions [17][18][19]