Mony Aramalla explores the growing potential of technologies in tackling the issue of an ageing population
By 2050, the world will be older than ever before. With one in six people aged 65 or over and birth rates falling rapidly in many countries, societies are bracing for a seismic shift in how our world works. This trend will continue into the 2100s, with regions like Europe and East Asia experiencing the most dramatic shifts. Simultaneously, fertility rates in many countries are falling below replacement levels, leading to shrinking populations and a declining ratio of workers to retirees. Who will care for ageing populations? How will economies grapple with shrinking workforces? And can social systems withstand the strain?
Without sufficient healthcare workers or resources, systems are going to be easily overburdened, leading to a lower quality of service and higher mortality rates.
Developments in technology may hold the solutions to these concerns. Robots assisting the elderly, AI making parenting less of a chore, and automation reshaping labor markets - these are innovations that could change the way we navigate a rapidly ageing world.
Healthcare systems around the world are already struggling to accommodate people and rise to action during crisis moments. With the growing population of elderly, there will be an increase in the risk of a complete healthcare system collapse. Without sufficient healthcare workers or resources, systems are going to be easily overburdened, leading to a lower quality of service and higher mortality rates.
Further, shrinking workforces caused by an increasing number of retirees will lead to more economic challenges. Fewer people are left to contribute to the economy, potentially hindering growth, innovation, and public services like pensions and healthcare.
Yet, innovation could be the answer to alleviating some of these challenges. Robots, automation technologies, and artificial intelligence (AI) are already being integrated into daily life. Socially assistive robots can help with activities like mobility, lifting, and even companionship. Wearable devices and AI-powered applications can track early signs of illness and alert caregivers in emergencies. These technologies can reduce the burden on healthcare professionals and ease the pressure on healthcare systems, while empowering older people to live independently for longer.
Innovations like Robear, a nursing care robot, and Panasonic’s Resyone, a robotic bed that transforms into a wheelchair, are revolutionizing elderly care.
Meanwhile, we have seen a trend of young people opting out of having children due to time, cost, and stress. Technology has the potential to make parenting ‘easier’. AI-driven smart monitors can track babies’ sleep patterns, feeding schedules, and health, reducing the long list of worries for parents. Innovations in household automation could also free up valuable time, making it easier to balance work and family life. These advancements could alleviate parenting concerns and potentially lead to higher birth rates, although there is not yet data to back up the theory.
Although these technologies are still in early development globally, Japan offers valuable insights. Facing a significant demographic shift, with nearly 30% of its population over 65, Japan has embraced robotics and automation to support its elderly population. Innovations like Robear, a nursing care robot, and Panasonic’s Resyone, a robotic bed that transforms into a wheelchair, are revolutionizing elderly care. Automating mundane chores, such as grocery shopping, could maintain productivity despite a shrinking workforce. However, even with these advances, Japan’s declining birth rate remains a challenge. Where policies like subsidized child care, work-life balance initiatives, and tax incentives have had limited success, a move toward a combination of social policy and technology may change the landscape entirely.
Japan is not alone in grappling with an ageing population. Implementations in South Korea and Germany offer additional insights into how different nations are addressing similar challenges. With one of the lowest fertility rates in the world, South Korea is investing heavily in robotics to mitigate labor shortage. However, societal norms around long working hours remain a significant barrier to success when it comes to tackling the lowering birth rates. Germany has leaned more heavily on open immigration to offset declining population growth.
As the global population continues to age, the need for innovative solutions will only grow. The question isn’t whether technology can help - it’s how quickly we can adapt to harness its full potential. The future may be older, but with the right innovations, it can also be brighter.