Global analysis reveals how nations are adapting to ageing populations
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A comprehensive new study published in Nature Aging has revealed significant disparities in how countries worldwide are adapting to their ageing populations, with Switzerland leading the rankings and notable variations across high-, middle-, and low-income nations.
The research, which analysed 143 countries representing 95.4% of the world’s population, evaluated nations across five key domains: well-being, productivity and engagement, equity, cohesion and security. While high-income countries generally performed better overall, the study found that economic status alone doesn’t determine a country’s success in adapting to demographic changes.
Australia’s performance in the Global Aging Society Index reveals both strengths and areas needing improvement in its approach to population ageing.
The country has implemented strategic frameworks such as the National Strategic Framework for Chronic Conditions and specific health plans for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations, demonstrating proactive policy development to address ageing-related challenges.
However, the research indicates that even well-resourced nations like Australia face significant challenges in fully adapting to demographic transformation. The study emphasises that successful adaptation requires comprehensive approaches across multiple domains, from healthcare delivery to social support systems.
Related: More support needed for Australia’s rapidly ageing population
Switzerland topped the overall rankings with a score of 82.3, showing strength in security (ranked 2nd), well-being (3rd) and productivity and engagement (1st). The Swiss success story highlights the importance of strong healthcare systems, high life satisfaction, and robust security measures for older adults.
Singapore emerged as a notable performer in the well-being domain, achieving the world’s longest healthy life expectancy despite spending significantly less on healthcare than other high-income nations (4.08% of GDP compared to the high-income country average of 12.5%).
One of the study’s most striking findings was the persistent gender gap in ageing outcomes. Only five out of 143 countries showed higher scores for women than men, with the disparity particularly pronounced in low-income nations. This global pattern suggests that gender equality remains a crucial challenge in adapting to population ageing.
The research underscores the urgency for countries at all development levels to prepare for demographic changes. For high-income countries like Australia, the focus should be on refining existing systems and addressing inequities. Meanwhile, low- and middle-income countries have the opportunity to learn from both the successes and mistakes of more developed nations as they build their ageing-ready infrastructure.
The study’s authors emphasise that effective responses to population ageing can yield multiple benefits, from reduced healthcare costs to better utilisation of older adults’ experience and wisdom. They suggest that countries use this index to benchmark their performance and prioritise actions for improvement.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
