5 Companies Set to Cash In on America's Aging Population

Let's face it: We're getting old. The percentage of Americans age 65 or older has been steadily on the rise over the decade. It hit 14 percent in 2012 -- and the Census Bureau projects that by 2050, 21 percent of Americans will be at least 65 years old.

Our aging demographic profile has created some immense challenges, particularly in the areas of Social Security and Medicare. But it also opens up opportunities for enterprising businesses that provide necessary services to an aging population.

Companies that identify demographic trends are best positioned to profit from them. Here are five that are in the right place at the right time -- and if they're smart about their strategic vision, they (and their investors) could reap a lot of growth from an aging customer base.

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Motley Fool contributor Dan Caplinger has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool owns shares of Johnson & Johnson and Medtronic.