Use of English

Ageing Societies

Many developed countries are having to come to (0) TERMS with the consequences of ageing populations. As birth rates fall and life expectancy rises, the proportion of older people in society continues to (1) .......... . This demographic shift places increasing pressure on healthcare systems, pension schemes and social services, all of which were originally (2) .......... for a very different population structure. One of the main concerns is the shrinking workforce. With fewer young people entering employment, governments may struggle to (3) .......... economic growth while also funding support for retired citizens. In addition, families are often no longer able to (4) .......... after elderly relatives in the way they once did, largely because family members live further apart or work longer hours. However, an ageing population should not be seen only as a burden. Older people can continue to make a valuable (5) .......... to society through voluntary work, mentoring and community involvement. The real challenge lies in adapting public policy so that people remain healthy, active and financially secure well into old age. Unless governments act now, the problem may (6) .......... beyond the control of existing institutions. What is needed is a long-term strategy aimed (7) .......... balancing economic realities with social responsibility. Only then can societies hope to (8) .......... with this change in a fair and sustainable way.