The world’s population is aging, a trend that can be seen in almost every country as the number and proportion of older people continues 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 over is growing at a faster rate than the population aged under 65. The percentage of people aged 65 and over worldwide is projected to increase from 10% in 2022 to 16% by 2050. The number of people aged 65 and over is expected to be twice the number of children under the age of 5 and almost equal to the number of children under the age of 12. It is in this context that we need to find out which countries currently have the highest percentage of people over the age of 65. The current forecasts are made from 2023 and are prepared on the basis of data from the World Bank. They based their projections on the United Nations Population Division – World Population Prospects (2022 Revision)
Monaco
In first place is Monaco, officially 36% of the population of the Principality of Monaco is aged 65 and over. This semi-enclave is surrounded by France to the north, east and west. In 2023, the population of the country is 36,297 people.
Japan
Japan has one of the oldest populations in the world, with about 30% of the population aged 65 or older. The problem is one of the biggest in Japan at the moment, with people experiencing difficulties in providing health care and welfare for the elderly.
Italy
Italy, one of the most active cultural centers of art and architecture, also faces a demographic challenge: 24% of the population is aged 65 or older.
Finland
Finland, in fourth place, has 24% of its population aged 65 and over. In addition, it is also assumed that by 2030 this figure should increase to 26%, and by 2060. it should reach 29%.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is also aging rapidly: 23% of citizens are aged 65 or older. Several factors have reportedly influenced their demographic trend, including emigration, birth rates, and death rates.
Portugal
With 23% of Portugal’s population aged 65 and over, long life expectancy and low birth rates contribute to a large elderly population.
Greece
As of 2023, 23% of Greece’s population is aged 65 and over. According to reports, Greece’s population will decrease by 25% by 2070 due to low birth rates, mass emigration and negative net migration. Greece recorded fewer than 77,000 births in 2022, the lowest rate in nearly a century.
Croats
CroatsThe US coastline attracts millions of travelers each year, but the country faces major challenges on two fronts – the demographic dividend and population. 23% of its population is 65 or older, and the country’s overall population is also shrinking. It is expected to fall below 4 million by 2030.
Germany
With 23% of the population aged 65 and over, Germany also faces demographic challenges such as a growing elderly population and the need for sustainable pension systems.
Isle of Man
The country is facing a demographic crisis that will only increase until 2036. According to reports, the population of the Isle of Man is aging faster than expected due to the emigration of young people and a large population of baby boomers.
