in many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an ageing population creates problems for government. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of having an ageing outweigh the disadvantages?

There is growing concern that the rising number of elderly people is placing increasing pressure on governments and working-age citizens.

While

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it is true that older individuals can offer some value to society, I believe that the disadvantages of an ageing demographic far outweigh the benefits, particularly in terms of economic sustainability and social impact.

Firstly

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, the expansion of the senior group places an enormous burden on public finances. Many retirees require continuous medical care, assisted living, and financial support through pensions. These expenses are typically funded by taxpayers, which means that the responsibility falls heavily on the working public.

For example

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, in many European countries, a significant percentage of national budgets is now allocated to elderly care, leaving less available for education, infrastructure, and youth employment programs. Over time,

this

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shift in spending could lead to long-term economic imbalance and reduced public investment in future generations.

Secondly

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, a declining birth rate paired with increased life expectancy results in a shrinking workforce. With fewer young people entering employment, there is a reduced tax base to support the growing number of dependents.

This

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demographic imbalance threatens not only pension systems but

also

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economic growth

overall

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Although

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policies

such

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as raising the retirement age or encouraging elderly people to re-enter the workforce have been introduced in some countries, these measures are not always practical or popular. Unless more innovative and large-scale reforms are implemented, the system may become unsustainable within a few decades. Admittedly, older individuals can provide wisdom, mentorship, and even unpaid community support. In many cultures, they play an important role in maintaining traditions and supporting families.

However

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, these contributions are not enough to offset the significant financial and logistical challenges posed by an ageing society. In conclusion,

while

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the elderly can positively impact society in some areas, the economic and demographic consequences of a rapidly greying population are far more serious. Governments must take urgent steps to reform welfare systems and ensure that the burden on working-age citizens does not become overwhelming in the future.

makemoneyizzy16

Jul 14, 2025

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task achievement

Make sure each paragraph clearly relates back to the main question.

task achievement

Try to include more specific examples or data to support your points.

coherence and cohesion

Use clearer linking words to connect ideas smoothly.

coherence and cohesion

The essay has a clear introduction and conclusion that present the writer's view.

task achievement

The writer provides a solid argument about the economic impact of an ageing population.

Support ideas with relevant, specific examples

Examples make your writing easier to understand by illustrating points more effectively.

Examples, if used properly, not only help you get higher marks for ‘Task Response’ but also for ‘Coherence’.

When giving examples it is best to put them after your main idea or topic sentence. They can be used in the middle of supporting sentences or they can be used to start a new sentence. There is no rule for where exactly to give examples in essays, logically they would come after your main idea/topic sentence or just after a supporting sentence.

Linking words for giving examples:

for example
for instance
to illustrate this
to give a clear example
such as
namely
to illustrate
take, for example

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10
Linking words
meeting the goal of 7 or more
0
Word repetition
meeting the goal of 3 or fewer
0
Grammar mistakes
detected issues

0123456789.0505

Overall Band Score

Coherence and Cohesion: 6.0

Logical structure

Introduction & conclusion present

Supported main points

Accurate linking words

Variety in linking words

Lexical resource: 9.0

Varied vocabulary

Accurate spelling & word formation

Grammatical Range: 9.0

Mix of complex & simple sentences

Clear and correct grammar

Task Achievement: 6.0

Complete response

Clear & comprehensive ideas

Relevant & specific examples

Appropriate word count

5 paragraphs

336 words

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Topic Vocabulary:

Ageing population
Pension systems
Healthcare demand
Workforce demographics
Life expectancy
Economic productivity
Intergenerational relationships
Cultural heritage
Social services
Government spending
Skills gap
Public services
Cultural enrichment
Seniority advantage
Elder care
Demographic shift

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in many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an ageing population creates problems for government. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of having an ageing outweigh the disadvantages?

Support ideas with relevant, specific examples

It is more important for the government to spend money on promoting the healthy lifestyle to prevent illness rather than on the treatment of people who are really ill. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Children can learn effectively by watching television. Therefore they should be encouraged to watch television regularly at school and at home. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

You are leaving your job and would like to invite your friend to replace you. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter, you should: -describe the job -explain the reason you are leaving -tell him/her why you would recommend the job to them

In many countries around the world, rural people are moving to cities, so the population in the countryside is decreasing. Do you think this is a positive or a negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Most countries want to host international sports events, while other countries think hosting sports events has more problems than benefits. Discuss both views and give your opinion.