The world’s population is aging, a trend observed in nearly every country, as the number and proportion of older individuals continue to grow. This demographic shift is expected to bring significant changes to global systems and structures. According to World Population Prospects 2022, the population aged 65 and above is increasing at a faster rate than those below 65. The percentage of people aged 65 and older globally is projected to rise from 10% in 2022 to 16% by 2050. By that time, the number of individuals aged 65 and over is expected to be twice that of children under age 5 and nearly equal to the number of children under age 12. It is in this context that we must learn which countries currently have the highest percentage of people above the age of 65. The current projections are from 2023 and have been curated by the World Bank Data. They have based their projections on the United Nations Population Division- World Population Prospects(2022 Revision)
Monaco
On the top position is Monaco, officially the Principality of Monaco has about 36% of its population aged 65 or above. This semi-enclave is surrounded by France to the north, east, and west. As of 2023, the country has a population of 36,297.
Japan
Japan has one of the world’s oldest populations, with about 30% of its population 65 or above. The issue is one of the biggest in Japan currently, with people finding it difficult to provide healthcare and welfare for the elderly.
Italy
Italy, one of the most active cultural hubs for art and architecture, also faces a demographic issue with 24% of its population 65 or above.
Finland
Standing in the fourth position, Finland has 24% of its population aged 65 or above. Further, it is also estimated that by 2030, that number is expected to increase to 26%, and by 2060, it’s expected to reach 29%.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is aging rapidly too with 23% of citizens aged 65 or above. As per reports, their demographic trend has been influenced by several factors which include- outmigration, fertility rates, and mortality rates.
Portugal
With a 23% population aged 65 or above, Portugal’s high life expectancy and low fertility rates contribute to its significant elderly population.
Greece
As of 2023, Greece’s 23% population is aged 65 or above. As per reports, Greece’s population is projected to shrink by as much as 25% by 2070, due to low fertility rates, mass emigration, and a negative migration balance. In 2022, Greece recorded less than 77,000 births, the lowest in almost a century.
Croatia
Croatia’s coastlines attract millions of travelers each year, but the country is facing major issues on two fronts- population dividend and population. 23% of its population is aged 65 or above and further the total population of the country is declining too. By 2030 it is expected to fall below 4 million.
Germany
With a 23% population aged 65 and above, Germany also faces demographic challenges like a growing elderly population and a need for sustainable pension systems.
Isle of Man
The country faces a population crisis, which will only continue to grow till 2036. As per reports, the Isle of Man’s population has aged faster than expected due to the emigration of young people and a large baby boomer population.
