Md. Bazlur Rashid

The International Day of Older Persons, observed every year on October 1st, was designated by the United Nations in 1990 to raise awareness about the challenges faced by older people and to honour their contributions to society. This annual event is a reminder to address ageing issues, promote the rights and well-being of older people, and foster intergenerational solidarity. In 2024, the International Day of Older Persons theme focuses on “Aging with Dignity: Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons.” This theme highlights the growing need for quality care and the protection of dignity as the global population ages.

Ageing populations are a significant global demographic shift. According to the United Nations, 761 million people aged 65 or older in 2021 will increase dramatically in the coming decades. By 2050, it is projected that one in six people worldwide will be aged 65 or over. With increasing life expectancy and declining fertility rates, the proportion of older people is growing faster than ever. This demographic change has profound implications for every aspect of society, from health systems to labour markets, and it poses new challenges in providing adequate care and support to ageing populations.

Bangladesh is experiencing a demographic transition that will have profound implications for its future. Over the past few decades, the country has made significant strides in improving healthcare and life expectancy and reducing fertility rates. As a result, the proportion of older adults in the population is steadily increasing. While this shift reflects positive progress in public health and socio-economic development, it also presents complex challenges. Bangladesh's ageing population brings a host of social and economic implications that will require thoughtful planning and policy intervention to ensure sustainable development and the well-being of older citizens.

One of the primary factors contributing to the ageing population in Bangladesh is the significant increase in life expectancy. In 1971, the average life expectancy was around 46 years. By 2023, it had risen to nearly 73 years, a remarkable improvement in just five decades. This increase in longevity has been driven by advancements in healthcare, better access to medical services, and improvements in living conditions. Simultaneously, Bangladesh has experienced a rapid decline in fertility rates, from 6.3 children per woman in 1971 to around 2.1 in 2023. As a result, the population structure is shifting, with a growing number of elderly citizens.

The social implications of this demographic shift are significant. Traditionally, Bangladesh has relied on a family-based solid support system to care for older people. In most households, older adults live with their children or extended families, where they receive care and support. However, this traditional caregiving model faces strain as urbanisation and migration increase. Many young people are moving to cities or migrating abroad for better economic opportunities, leaving behind older family members who may have limited social support. This changing social structure creates a growing demand for formal caregiving services, often limited in Bangladesh, especially in rural areas.

Moreover, the increase in the number of older persons raises concerns about healthcare and providing age-appropriate medical services. As people age, they are more likely to suffer from chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and arthritis, which require long-term care and management. Bangladesh's healthcare system primarily addresses infectious diseases and maternal health, with limited infrastructure for senior care. There is a pressing need to develop healthcare services that cater to the elderly, including geriatric specialists, age-friendly hospitals, and community-based healthcare programs.

In addition to healthcare challenges, the economic implications of an ageing population are also significant. As the working-age population shrinks relative to the elderly population, there will be a growing dependency ratio. This means fewer working-age people will support more older adults who are no longer economically active. In many developed countries, pension systems and social security programs help to provide financial support to older citizens. However, Bangladesh's pension system is limited, covering only a tiny portion of the population, primarily government employees. Most older people in Bangladesh have no formal retirement savings and rely on their families for financial support.

The lack of a comprehensive social safety net for the elderly population poses a significant challenge. Many older adults in Bangladesh continue to work in informal sectors, such as agriculture or small-scale trading, well into their old age because they have no other means of financial security. As their physical abilities decline, they become more vulnerable to poverty. Expanding social protection programs, such as pensions and old-age allowances, will be crucial in addressing the economic vulnerability of older citizens. In recent years, the government has introduced a modest Old Age Allowance program, but its coverage and benefit levels are inadequate to meet the growing demand.

Another critical aspect of the economic impact of ageing is the potential strain on public finances. As the population ages, there will be increased demand for public spending on healthcare, pensions, and other forms of social protection. Without appropriate planning, the financial burden of supporting an ageing population could limit Bangladesh’s ability to invest in other critical areas of development, such as education, infrastructure, and poverty reduction. To mitigate these risks, Bangladesh must implement policies that promote economic growth while simultaneously planning for the future needs of its ageing citizens.

However, the ageing population also presents opportunities. Many older adults in Bangladesh are still active and possess valuable skills, knowledge, and experience that can benefit society. Recognising the potential contributions of older persons and creating opportunities for them to remain engaged in social and economic activities can help alleviate some of the challenges of an ageing society. For example, older adults can mentor younger generations, passing on their expertise in agriculture, business, or other sectors. Encouraging lifelong learning and creating flexible employment opportunities for older adults can also help them remain economically active, reducing the dependency burden on younger generations.

Furthermore, intergenerational solidarity will play a key role in addressing the challenges of an ageing society. Strengthening family ties and promoting community-based support systems can help ensure that older persons are not left behind. Initiatives that foster connections between generations, such as volunteer programs that pair younger individuals with older adults for companionship or caregiving, can provide mutual benefits. Younger people can learn from the wisdom and experience of older generations, while older adults gain social interaction and support.

In addressing the implications of an ageing population, gender considerations must also be considered. Women, who tend to live longer than men, constitute the majority of the elderly population in Bangladesh. However, older women are often more vulnerable to poverty, as they may have had fewer opportunities for formal employment and savings during their working years. Additionally, older women are more likely to be widowed and live alone, further increasing their risk of social isolation and financial insecurity. Gender-sensitive policies that address the specific needs of older women, such as targeted social protection programs and healthcare services, will be essential in promoting the well-being of older women in Bangladesh.

As Bangladesh moves forward, it is clear that the ageing population will be a defining issue for the country's social and economic future. Addressing the needs of older persons will require a comprehensive approach that includes strengthening healthcare systems, expanding social protection programs, and promoting active ageing. The government, civil society, and the private sector must work together to develop policies ensuring older citizens age with dignity and security. By investing in the well-being of older people today, Bangladesh can build a society that values and respects its older population while preparing for tomorrow's demographic changes.

Bangladesh's ageing population presents both challenges and opportunities. While the social and economic implications of an ageing society are significant, proactive policies and programs can help mitigate the risks and promote the well-being of older persons. The country’s ability to address the needs of its ageing population will be critical in shaping its future development and ensuring that all citizens, regardless of age, can live with dignity and security.

The writer is an Associate Professor and departmental head of the Department of Sociology, Tejgaon College, Dhaka.