Historic first: Older adults now outnumber the youngest children for the first time
Summary
For the first time in history, there are more people aged 65 and older than children aged 5 and younger worldwide. This change is due to fewer babies being born and people living longer, which will affect how societies care for older adults in the future.Key Facts
- People aged 65+ worldwide outnumber children aged 5 and younger for the first time.
- Fertility rates (average births per woman) have dropped below the 2.1 replacement level in over 71% of countries in 2023.
- The 65+ population is expected to grow from 852 million in 2025 to 2 billion by 2060.
- Aging populations put pressure on pensions, health care, and long-term care systems.
- The U.S. is ranked 48th for oldest populations in 2025, with 18.9% aged 65+, rising to 23.4% by 2060.
- Asia will see its 65+ population increase from 487 million to 1.24 billion by 2060, making up most of the global growth.
- Africa will remain the youngest region but will have a 65+ population quadruple from 60 million to 249 million by 2060.
- Longer lives offer opportunities for older adults to work longer, volunteer, and contribute to society.
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