Question

What is the main cause of ageing of population?

• A. Increased birth rate
• B. Sedentary lifestyle
• C. Increased life expectancy
• D. Migration

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

The main cause of an ageing population is increased life expectancy. As advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions improve, people tend to live longer. This results in a higher proportion of older individuals within the population. Consequently, this demographic shift leads to an overall older average age of the population. 

While increased birth rate could potentially balance an ageing population by introducing more young individuals into the demographic pool, it is not the primary factor causing population ageing. Similarly, a sedentary lifestyle may impact individual health but does not directly influence the population's age structure. Finally, migration can influence population dynamics, but its effect on ageing depends on the age profiles of immigrants and emigrants.

Answer 2

Population ageing is a demographic phenomenon primarily driven by an increase in life expectancy. As healthcare systems improve, medical advancements reduce mortality rates, and living standards rise, people are living longer lives. This shift results in a growing proportion of elderly individuals within the population, leading to an overall ageing trend.

In addition to increased life expectancy, factors such as declining birth rates also contribute to population ageing. Many countries have seen a decrease in fertility rates due to societal changes, including delayed marriage, increased educational and career opportunities for women, and greater access to family planning methods.

This demographic shift presents challenges, including increased pressure on pension systems, healthcare infrastructure, and social services. It also requires a rethinking of economic policies and workforce dynamics, as the working-age population shrinks and the need for elderly care services grows.

Overall, the ageing population phenomenon is reshaping societies worldwide, necessitating adaptations in various sectors to support the needs of an older population while maintaining economic sustainability.