Ageing populations: the challenges ahead

Ageing populations: the challenges ahead

2009 October 3; 374(9696): 1196–1208. | Kaare Christensen, MD1, Gabriele Doblhammer, PhD2, Roland Rau, PhD2, and James W Vaupel, PhD3
The article discusses the challenges of aging populations in developed countries, focusing on the trends in life expectancy, mortality, disease prevalence, and functional limitations. It highlights that most babies born since 2000 in countries with long life expectancies are expected to reach their 100th birthdays if current trends continue. The text emphasizes that while life expectancy has increased significantly, the aging population is also characterized by low fertility and immigration rates. Key questions include whether increases in life expectancy are accompanied by a postponement of functional limitations and disability. Research suggests that aging processes are modifiable, and people are living longer without severe disability, which is crucial for societal sustainability. The article also examines the health trends, noting improvements in mobility and a reduction in disability prevalence, particularly for younger elderly individuals. However, it acknowledges that the situation for the oldest-old (aged >85 years) remains less clear, with concerns about increased disease and disability. The text concludes by discussing the economic implications of population aging and potential strategies to address these challenges, such as raising the retirement age and redistributing work across different ages.The article discusses the challenges of aging populations in developed countries, focusing on the trends in life expectancy, mortality, disease prevalence, and functional limitations. It highlights that most babies born since 2000 in countries with long life expectancies are expected to reach their 100th birthdays if current trends continue. The text emphasizes that while life expectancy has increased significantly, the aging population is also characterized by low fertility and immigration rates. Key questions include whether increases in life expectancy are accompanied by a postponement of functional limitations and disability. Research suggests that aging processes are modifiable, and people are living longer without severe disability, which is crucial for societal sustainability. The article also examines the health trends, noting improvements in mobility and a reduction in disability prevalence, particularly for younger elderly individuals. However, it acknowledges that the situation for the oldest-old (aged >85 years) remains less clear, with concerns about increased disease and disability. The text concludes by discussing the economic implications of population aging and potential strategies to address these challenges, such as raising the retirement age and redistributing work across different ages.
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