The "graying" of the U.S. population as it relates to healthcare means that A. We are becoming healthier as a nation because older people are now exercising more. B. Although our population is older, healthcare costs are reduced because we are healthier as we age. C. The U.S. will be confronted with more chronic health issues because as we age, more chronic health conditions develop. This will result in more stress on the U.S. healthcare system. D. None of the above

The correct answer is letter "C": The U.S. will be confronted with more chronic health issues because as we age, more chronic health conditions develop. This will result in more stress on the U.S. healthcare system.

Explanation:

While talking about the population in the U.S. the term "graying" refers to the increasing rate of elders in the country. The U.S. Census Bureau reported in 2016 that there were over 49 million people 65 years and older representing 15.2% of the population.

This situation represents an issue for the healthcare system since the increase of elder population implies hospitals and medical centers, in general, will be more necessary to treat age-related conditions such as arthritis, cataracts, osteoporosis, hypertension, and Alzheimer's.