Elderly Support Ratio
Overview
The Elderly Support Ratio is a demographic concept that compares the number of elderly individuals (typically aged 65 or more) to the number of working-age adults (usually between 15 and 64 years old). This ratio helps predict societal challenges related to aging, retirement, pensions, healthcare, and social services.
Key Themes
- Population Aging: As societies experience increasing life expectancies, the proportion of elderly individuals rises.
- Workforce Changes: Fewer working-age adults may lead to labor shortages, economic consequences, or increased immigration.
- Social Services & Healthcare: An aging population puts pressure on healthcare systems and social support structures, including pensions and long-term care.
Significance
Understanding the Elderly Support Ratio is crucial for anticipating societal changes, allocating resources efficiently, adjusting retirement ages, and preparing for increased demand for age-related services. This knowledge impacts policy-making, urban planning, and financial stability in aging societies.