Ranking causes of death is a standard and widely used method of presenting mortality statistics. In fact, the CDC has published leading cause-of-death data since 1952, beginning with 1949 mortality data. So why rank causes of death? Understanding the leading causes of death in older adults is useful for showing the relative burden of cause-specific mortality. However, we should have a clear understanding of what the rankings mean. Bottom line, the rankings identify the most frequently occurring causes of death among those eligible to be ranked.
According to the CDC’s 2024 mortality data, it should come as no surprise that heart disease and cancer accounted for more than 44% of deaths among people aged 65 or older and more than 39% of deaths among those aged 85 or older. However, the remaining order did surprise me a bit, considering the population we serve.
As reported by McKnight’s Senior Living, the top 10 causes of death among adults aged 65 and older in 2024 were:
- Heart disease (24.0%)
- Cancer (20.1%)
- Stroke (6.2%)
- Chronic lower respiratory diseases, or CLRD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema, asthma, bronchitis, and bronchiectasis) (5.4%)
- Alzheimer’s disease (4.9%)
- Unintentional injuries (3.2%)
- Diabetes (2.9%)
- Kidney disease (1.9%)
- Parkinson’s disease (1.7%)
- Influenza and pneumonia (1.7%)
The last three on this list seem to be very prevalent in our communities. However, maybe due to quality care and appropriate interventions, the numbers are lower. After all, the care provided in our communities can make a difference. So, I am going to be a cheerleader for a minute and say, yay to you!
Kidney disease is very common in our communities, along with Parkinson’s disease. Additionally, just think of the number of flu and pneumonia shots we give annually. Maybe, just maybe, we are winning some of the battle.
Ultimately, these leading causes of death in older adults remind us of the importance of the care and interventions provided every day. So, keep up the good work! Now, if they could cure cancer, imagine how beautiful the world would be.
Stay well and stay informed!
