Healthy ageing
Context:
A recent global report cut world GDP growth forecast to 2.8% and India’s to 6.2%, citing growing trade tensions, policy uncertainties, and demographic shifts. It recommends “healthy ageing” as a key economic lever.
Relevance:
GS2: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections, demographic challenges, government interventions
GS3: Inclusive growth, employment, labour reforms, human capital
Dimensions to explore:
- Demographic Economics: From dividend to drag
- Labour Policy: Role of older workers in the modern economy
- Pension and Healthcare Reforms
- Gender Gaps: Importance of female labour force participation
- Future of Work: Skilling older and female workers, age-inclusive workplaces
What’s the issue?
- Many economies are crossing their demographic turning points — fertility rates are dropping, life expectancy is rising, and the demographic dividend is shifting into a demographic drag.
- This poses risks to labour supply and economic productivity.
Why “Healthy Ageing” is the new economic strategy.
- The average age globally will increase by 11 years from 2020 to 2100.
- A 70-year-old in 2022 has similar cognitive ability as a 53-year-old in 2000 — showing how functional ageing is improving.
- Healthy ageing could boost global GDP growth by 0.4 percentage points annually from 2025–2050.
- India stands to gain, as its population aged 50+ will grow rapidly during this period.
Way Forward:
- Workplace Adaptation: Ergonomic and flexible roles for older workers
- Health-oriented Interventions: Preventive care, mental health, mobility support
- Pension and Labour Policy Reform: Delay effective retirement age without reducing dignity
- Gender-focused Measures: Childcare support, work-life balance to encourage women’s participation
- Skilling at All Ages: Lifelong learning systems and on-the-job reskilling
Prelims Practice Question:
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the concept of “Healthy Ageing”:
- It refers only to the physical health of individuals aged above 60.
- It can contribute positively to a country’s GDP growth.
- India’s share of older workers is projected to decline by 2050.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 2 and 3 only
Answer: B
(Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect as healthy ageing includes cognitive and functional capacities. Statement 3 is incorrect; India’s older worker population is projected to grow.)
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