The Economist developed a multimedia feature about the rich world’s rapidly aging population and the anticipated economic consequences. “At present, the developed countries on average have about four people of working age for every person over 65. But by 2050 this will have come down to only two workers for every pensioner.” With people living longer and having fewer children, countries will be burdened with higher health and retirement costs and smaller labor forces. The United States, however, is in a better position than other Western powers.
Of course developed countries are not the only ones with looming demographic issues. China and Russia face similar concerns.
Multimedia from The Economist.
