The Census Bureau says the 65 and older population is now the largest in size and percent of population compared with any previous census.

Data released Wednesday shows the 65 and older population grew faster than the total population. Between 2000 and 2010, it grew 15.1 percent. The total U.S. Population grew 9.7 percent.

The population of older men increased more quickly than older women.

The south had the largest number of people in older ages, while the northeast had largest percentage.