Silver Economy
Abstract:
The aging of the global population is an inescapable reality. In 1960, the proportion of adults aged 60 and
over represented approximately 8% of the world's population. In 2022, this figure rose to 10% and is projected
to reach 16% by 2050. Although historically this trend was mainly associated with countries such as Japan
or Spain, it is now evident that it is also present in regions such as Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC).
In 1960, less than 6% of the population in LAC was 60 years of age or older; in 2022, this group represented
about 13% and it is estimated that by 2050 it will reach 25%. In other words, one-in-four people in the
region will be 60 years of age or older. Two key factors are driving this demographic transformation. On the
one hand, advances in technology, medicine and welfare-oriented public policies have contributed to a
significant increase in life expectancy. On the other hand, cultural changes in younger generations, such as
a decline in fertility rates and the redefinition of parenthood and family structure, have radically altered
population composition. This context poses a series of complex challenges for countries, including: increased
demand for health services, pensions and retirement systems; the impact on labour markets; transformations
in family structure; increased economic and social inequality; the need to adapt urban infrastructure; the fight
against ageism; and the effects on the sustainability of development. These challenges require creative,
collaborative and innovative solutions that involve all social actors: governments, academic institutions, private
companies, entrepreneurs, non-profit organisations and investors, among others.
