In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What problems will this cause for individuals and society? Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing populations

The population of the elderly in developed nations is indeed larger than ever.
This
essay will discuss some of the possible brunts of greater
life
expectancy
to both individuals and society and suggest several steps to overcome the same. As the people live longer and populations in industrialised nations grow older, an array of related problems can be anticipated. The primary problem would be the financial burden on the family member who is caring for their elderly relative. It is universally acknowledged that elderly people have greater medical expenses.
Therefore
, the caring young person has to pay the medical bills of their elderly
in addition
to their bills.
Furthermore
, from the government's perspective, with an increased average
life
expectancy
of their citizens, there would be more pensioners in relation to the population size. More of the national funds would be spent on providing pensions to elderly rather than developing the country.
This
would
also
mean greater tax burden on young, working adults.
Nevertheless
, the menace of
this
trend of increased average
life
expectancy
can be overcome by twofold solutions.
Firstly
, the official authorities should raise the retirement age.
This
is because, in today's world, many are still very much healthy and productive at 65 years old. Malaysia,
for example
, should increase the compulsory retirement age from 60 to 65 years old.
Secondly
, the country should encourage immigration of working-class people into the country to mitigate the problem of the greater population of elderly citizens. In terms of tax money, the government will obtain greater revenues
this
way as there would be more taxpayers. In conclusion, the increased average
life
expectancy
merits some consideration as it causes financial burdens to young adults
besides
reducing the tax return of a nation.
Nonetheless
, in tackling
this
issue, the retirement age should be increased and the immigration of working adults in developed countries should be encouraged.

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • average life expectancy
  • developed world
  • increase
  • individuals
  • society
  • personal goals
  • ambitions
  • quality of life
  • leisure
  • recreation
  • healthcare costs
  • challenges
  • healthcare system
  • ageing population
  • shortage
  • available workers
  • economy
  • retirement planning
  • healthy lifestyles
  • investing
  • social support systems
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