An aging world
By the year 2050, the number of 65-year-olds will rise to 15.6 percent of the world's population. This will double current UN population rates for that age group. How did this happen and what does it mean for the world?
Inevitably older
Worldwide people are aging. In 2010 the number of those over 65 was 7.7 percent. According to UN estimates, this number will double to 15.6 percent by the year 2050. Reasons for this development include low birthrates and a higher life-expectancy. Especially in developing countries, people are expected to live longer than before.
Spry retirees
A century ago it was the exception to reach the age of 75. People at this age were considered ancient elders. Today, sprightly pensioners are often still in good health and enjoy life to its fullest. In Germany there are five times as many centenarians as 30 years ago.
Fit for life
The physical fitness of older people is related to improved medical care and increasing prosperity. This trend also appears in developing countries, where the majority of older people will be located.
Less of a priority
In the coming years the trend will continue - young families want fewer children. This is in part because woman are placing greater value on their own financial independence, and the children and career combination is often difficult to balance.
Girls want an education
Another reason women are having fewer babies: They want a better life for their children. Especially in poorer countries, women are choosing to send their daughters to school instead of tasking them with looking after their younger siblings.
Poor pension systems
Developing countries generally lack retirement funds and social systems. But their once healthy birth rates will lead to high numbers of seniors. There must be structures established to accommodate this shift and ease the lives of retirees.
Care alone is not enough
Even in affluent countries like Germany, good senior care is only part of the equation. Although there is a plethora of nursing homes, they are expensive. As pensions fall, more and more elderly are falling into poverty.
Falling between the cracks
In poorer regions elderly women are often forced to beg in order to survive. Many have worked their whole lives in fields and have no pensions. A physically taxing activity is often no longer an option. With a shifting age pyramid, the lack of prospects will grow.
Rise of the retirees
Around the world pensioners are protesting for appropriate retirement funds. In Nicaragua for example, retirees are seeking a minimum pension of $90 (70 euros) per month.
Post-retirement careers
The United Nations is calling for countries around the world to create meaningful job opportunities for older people. Our current understanding of retirement needs to be adjusted. Even today, many seniors work as small business owners.