Aging
The world crossed an important threshold in 2018, when the number of older people (over sixty-four years old) surpassed the number of young children (under the age of five) for the first time ever. This section explores shifting demographics worldwide and their social, economic, and health consequences.
Aging
57 Million
In 2019, there were more than 57 million people living with dementia globally—roughly the population of Italy
People living with dementia globally
127%
By 2050, New Zealand expects a 127 percent increase in the number of people with dementia
New Zealand's dementia growth by 2050
65.2 Years
In the AIAN population, life expectancy dropped from 67.1 years in 2020 to 65.2 years in 2021
American Indian and Alaska Native life expectancy
77 Percent
77 percent of all vision loss occurs among people aged 50 and older
Aging and vision loss
62%
Population under age 25 in sub-Saharan Africa
Population under age 25 in sub-Saharan Africa
Featured
Eight Billion and Counting
The world's population is on the verge of hitting eight billion people, and advances in health are behind the increase
Long COVID May Catalyze New Treatments for Chronic Pain and Fatigue
Medical breakthroughs for long COVID could benefit millions
The Curious Case of Japan's Alcohol Contest
Japan's young people are turning away from alcohol, but its tax agency wants to reverse the trend
The Quest for Social Connection and Well-Being
Scientists have been slow at developing strategies that measure and promote well-being within communities
The Disturbing Details Behind a Dip in U.S. Life Expectancy
A deep drop among American Indian and Alaska Native peoples is linked to policy failures that predate the pandemic
The World's Oldest Communities
A look at Blue Zones, spots where people live well into their 90s
The Rising Price of Dementia
As the number of people with dementia grows, families need access to affordable care
Aging and Displaced
The health and well-being of millions of older people around the world are threatened by violence and war
Growing Old in China in the Age of Abundance
A rapidly aging population has witnessed China's ascension to economic security, due in part to better health
Memory Robber—Keeping Dementia From Stealing Our Future
Dementia cases may triple globally by 2050, here's how public health professionals can help
The Problem of COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy in Teens
One high school senior says the decision to vaccinate should rest with teenagers
Putting Vision Loss and Aging into Focus
Addressing high blood sugar can reduce vision loss in older adults
An Aging World Requires More Support for Health Systems
Development assistance should reflect this need
The Myth of South Asian Exceptionalism
South Asia's young population conceals the effects that COVID-19 has on its older and more vulnerable people