The purpose of this note is to explore some recent significant trends concerning the ageing of the global population and to discuss some of the economic implications therein; and to proffer some ideas on where fruitful research might be conducted by the health economist given these trends. Populations in many countries are ageing. Many countries are experiencing a shift in the distribution of t...

This paper contributes to the debate about the impact of population ageing on health-care (HC) expenditure. Some health economists claim that the commonly presumed impact of population ageing is a 'red herring'. Based on empirical studies, these authors conclude that proximity to death and not age per se matters. In projecting HC expenditure for Switzerland, the present study provides evidence ...

Abstract Malta is experiencing a strong trend toward population ageing. In 2014, the government implemented an active ageing policy designed to address perceived economic and social ramifications of population. commitment break away from perceptions that equate with infirmity decline, underscores independence, productivity, activity as meaningful goals in later life. Ethnographic data gathered ...

Throughout the world governments are beginning to respond to the challenges of population ageing, often in rhetoric implying that ageing will bring about a ‘crisis’. These responses generally centre on the fi scal implications of retirement income support and health care services (OECD, 1998). The OECD notes the need for a broad and holistic approach to ageing, refl ecting the interdependence o...

This article argues that a strategy of active ageing, by linking the key policy domains of employment, pensions, retirement, health and citizenship, provides a sound basis for industrialized countries to respond to the challenges presented by population ageing. The article outlines the genesis of the concept of active ageing and the principles that should be embodied in a modernized, comprehens...