As the editor of a nonprofit organization that services the visually impaired and physically disabled community by providing free audio recordings of fine literature from magazines, I'm always interested in hearing about statistics that involve seniors because they correlate directly with our subscribers. 

It's hardly news that our population is growing older. The Administration on Aging confirmed recently that in 2009, 12 percent of the American population was 65 or older, numbering about 39.6 million. If that sounds like a lot, consider that by 2030, the 65-and-over population will grow to about 72 million, a whopping 19 percent of our population.

A larger elderly population will almost certainly mean more incidents of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), an ocular disease that makes it virtually impossible to read a book. It's also one of the leading causes of blindness.

Accordingly, the medical community seems to be anticipating a spike in AMD as scientists embark on exciting research to slow and maybe even reverse its effects. Some scientists are using stem cells to try to repair damaged retinal tissue caused by AMD. Others hope to create an artificial retina that could be used in transplants. And a pharmaceutical company is exploring whether a compound that inhibits the growth of blood vessels could be effective in treating AMD. 

Unfortunately, those struggling now with visual impairment aren't likely to benefit from current research since any new treatments stemming from this research are probably years away. As we eagerly await these medical advancements, it's imperative for healthcare providers and long-term caregivers to keep quality-of-life tools such as Choice Magazine Listening in mind for their patients and clients.

So much is lost to those not able to read the printed word. Synthesized voice technology fills some of the void, but many are put off by the robotic speech patterns. Who could imagine listening to a synthesized voice recite the plays of Shakespeare? Who would want to?

Four times a year, our professional narrators bring to life a variety of magazine articles, fiction, and poetry from some of the top writers in the English language—and at absolutely no cost. We don't claim to be a replacement for the printed word, but we might be the next best thing. Of course, the price is right too.

While we applaud everything medical science is doing to restore the gift of sight to those affected by AMD and other conditions, we also want people to know that until that time comes, they'll always be able to count on us to bring them great magazine writing. 

Pamela Loeser is the Editor In Chief of Choice Magazine Listening, which is based in Port Washington, NY.