A record number of Americans will turn 65 this year — about 4.1 million — the Wall Street Journal reports from an analysis by Jason Fichtner, chief economist at the Bipartisan Policy Center.

Why it matters: The surge of 65-year-old Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) will continue through 2027. AARP calls it a "silver tsunami."

Reality check: "Today's 65-year-olds are redefining a milestone long associated with retirement parties and the end of productive years," the Journal notes.

• "They are wealthier and by many measures, healthier, and expected to live another 20 years."
• "I'm not tired, I'm healthy and I enjoy my job," Kathy Wheeler, who turns 65 this year, told AARP.

Go deeper:

More Americans over 65 are working — here's why

Where America stands: New power centers, aging population