Old-Age Dependency Ratio

The Old-Age Dependency Ratio measures how many elderly people (typically aged 65 and older) there are for every 100 working-age individuals (ages 15-64). It helps assess the burden on the working population to support retirees through pensions, healthcare, and social services. A higher ratio indicates more older people relative to workers, which can challenge a country’s economy and social systems. Conversely, a lower ratio suggests a younger population with fewer retired individuals to support. This metric is useful for understanding demographic shifts and planning for future economic and social needs.