Global demographic shift: Older adults to outnumber children by 2060
The world is experiencing a rapid demographic shift where the population of those aged 65 and older is projected to grow from 852 million in 2025 to 2 billion by 2060. This increase will account for 55% of all net global population growth over that period. More than 71% of the global population now lives in countries with fertility rates at or below the 2.1 replacement level, a significant rise from 45% in 2013. This trend is spreading beyond wealthy nations, with China, India, and several other populous countries falling below replacement levels. The shift creates a 'fertility trap' in many regions, leading to fewer workers and caregivers supporting growing older populations, which puts pressure on pensions and health systems. While Europe remains the oldest region, Asia will account for two-thirds of the global increase in older adults, and Africa's older population is projected to surpass Europe's by 2060.
