Population ageing is a global phenomenon characterized by an increasing proportion of older individuals within the population. This trend is driven by two primary factors: declining fertility rates and rising life expectancy. As a result, the demographic structure of many countries is undergoing profound changes, with implications for economic, healthcare, and social systems.

Population ageing is a major demographic trend worldwide, with profound social, economic, and policy implications. Here are the latest trends in population ageing as of 2024:

1. Increasing Global Life Expectancy

• Advances in healthcare, sanitation, and living conditions continue to extend life expectancy.
• Many countries are seeing life expectancies surpassing 80 years, particularly in developed nations like Japan, Switzerland, and Australia.

2. Rising Proportion of Older Adults

• The global share of people aged 65 and older is increasing. By 2050, nearly 16% of the world’s population will be 65+, up from 10% in 2022.
• Some countries, like Japan, Italy, and Germany, already have over 25% of their population aged 65+.

3. Declining Fertility Rates

• Many countries are experiencing below-replacement fertility rates (below 2.1 children per woman).
• This leads to a shrinking working-age population and a higher old-age dependency ratio.

4. Super-Aged Societies Emerging

• Countries where more than 21% of the population is 65+ are classified as super-aged.
• Japan was the first super-aged society (2011), followed by others like South Korea, Germany, and Italy.

5. Ageing in Developing Countries

• While ageing has traditionally been a developed-world issue, low- and middle-income countries (e.g., China, India, Brazil) are now ageing rapidly.
• By 2050, two-thirds of the world’s older population will be in Asia and Africa.

6. Growth of the 80+ and Centenarian Population

• The number of people aged 80+ is expected to triple by 2050.
• The centenarian (100+ years old) population is growing the fastest, particularly in Japan, France, and the U.S.

7. Economic and Workforce Challenges

• Ageing populations strain pension systems, social security, and healthcare.
• Many countries are raising retirement ages and promoting older workforce participation.

8. Rise of Technology for Ageing

• AI, robotics, and smart homes are helping older adults live independently.
• Wearable health tech, telemedicine, and AI-driven elder care are on the rise.

9. Policy Responses and Age-Friendly Cities

• Governments are focusing on age-friendly infrastructure, such as accessible housing and public transport.
• Countries like Singapore and Finland are leading in policies for active ageing.

10. Changing Family Structures

• Smaller families mean fewer caregivers for the elderly.
• Many older adults are living alone, increasing demand for assisted living and home care services.

Population ageing is a complex issue with far-reaching consequences across various sectors. As societies adapt to these demographic shifts, it is crucial to develop policies that address the challenges while also recognizing the valuable contributions that older individuals make to communities. The focus should not only be on managing the implications but also on harnessing the opportunities presented by an ageing population. ATP