Ageing

An important area of work for ESCAP is that of ageing, reflecting the fact that 58 per cent of the world's older persons live in Asia-Pacific and that the number of older persons in the region is estimated to triple from 438 million in 2010 to 1.26 billion by 2050.   One in four people in the region will then be over 60 years old. In East and North-East Asia, more than one in three people will be older than 60 years by 2050, making it the most drastic demographic transformation in the world.   This population shift has deep social, economic and political implications. Rural-to-urban migration and changing family structures leave many older persons without traditional means of support. With little social protection, many are left with no secure source of income. Currently, most countries’ health systems cannot meet the needs of older persons. Moreover, age-friendly and barrier-free environments are needed for older persons to enjoy continued freedom of movement and to actively participate in society.   

This has particular implications for particular groups of older persons.  For example, women constitute the majority of the older population and an even greater majority of the “oldest old” population (80 years and older).  Many older women live alone, after the death of their spouse.  They are more vulnerable to poverty and social isolation, and face greater risks of physical and psychological abuse as a result of discriminatory norms and practices.  

However, population ageing presents not just challenges, but also opportunities. Older persons play crucial roles in supporting families and communities. Whether through the provision of such support or through directly engaging in economic activity, older persons contribute to the economic well-being of society.