Jerusalem inhabitants.Flickr.Some rights reserved.Countries around the world are experiencing one of the greatest demographic disruptions in history – the rapid aging of their populations. With few exceptions, in large and small, industrialized and developing countries alike, longer lifespans and reduced birthrates will drive an unprecedented growth in the proportion of the population aged 65+.
Foresight into the pace and shape of this transformation allows for a much needed rethink of the role of adults in our communities and economies, with the recognition that a healthier, more productive and engaged population is essential to building a prosperous and sustainable future.
In 2006, Japan became the first ‘super-aged’ country, when the share of 65+ hit 21% of the country’s population. Today, there are 4 super-aged countries – Japan, Italy, Greece and Germany, and 35 aged (14% of a country’s population) – which are all developed economies. In less than one decade, these numbers will rise rapidly to reach 24 super-aged in 2025, drawing in most of Europe, and 32 aged, including the major developing economies of China and Russia.
