Generational change and ageing populations

PEOPLE are living longer, well beyond 60. In less than seven years, one in six people will be 60 or older. By 2050, this will double, leaving 2.1 billion over 60, with 426 million aged 80 and above.

Countries worldwide grapple with the challenges of ageing populations. Japan and Italy, though geographically distant, share this trend, emphasising evolving welfare systems. Japan leads with over one in ten aged 80 or older and nearly 29 percent aged 65 or older.

Singapore, recognised for proactive governance, faces the dual challenge of ageing demographics and declining fertility rates, despite progressive policies.

Hong Kong focuses on reintegrating secluded youth into society, fostering a sense of belonging among disengaged young individuals for its ageing population.

India confronts an ageing population and the demand for quality elderly care, witnessing a rise in elderly care homes and assisted living spaces.

Australia embarks on an innovative journey to reform its aged care sector, enhancing the lives of older people while redefining retirement.

In an evolving workforce, older employees embrace online learning to remain relevant in a digital era.

As technology advances, intelligent virtual human companions emerge as potential caregivers for the elderly, presenting a new frontier in elderly care, accompanied by ethical and practical challenges.

On the 75th anniversary of the proclamation of the International Day of Older Persons, celebrated on 1 October, 360info is looking at how nations are preparing for their growing ageing populations, addressing age-friendly solutions, its implications and how to best serve their elderly citizens.

Supporting the old and the young

The number of old and young people the working population supports is increasing in developed economies like Australia, Italy, Japan and Singapore but is still trending downwards in India and Malaysia.

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Shahirah Hamid is the Commissioning Editor of 360info Southeast Asia