Every year on October 1, the world marks the International Day of Older Persons. The aim is to raise awareness about the opportunities and challenges of an aging population, and to mobilize families, communities, and stakeholders to address the difficulties faced by older people.
The theme for 2025 is: “Older Persons Driving Actions at Local and Global Levels: Our Aspirations, Our Well-being, and Our Rights.”
This message highlights that older persons are not passive beneficiaries, but a driving force of progress, sharing their knowledge and experience in building resilient and just societies.
Global Aging Trends
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Between 2024-2025, the number of people aged 65+ increased by 23 million.
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According to UN projections, between 2025-2050 the world will see an additional 721 million older persons.
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Middle-income countries will account for the largest increase—around 606 million people, while low-income countries will experience the highest relative growth—about 162%.
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Between 1974-2024, the global share of people aged 65+ nearly doubled, reaching 10.2%; by 2074, it is projected to double again, reaching 20.7%.
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The number of people aged 80+ is expected to more than quadruple over the next 50 years.
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In 2020, people aged 50+ made up 24% of the global population and contributed about 34% of global GDP. By 2050, their contribution is projected to rise to 39%.
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The same group accounted for 50% of global consumption (USD 35 trillion) in 2020, a figure projected to reach nearly 60% (USD 96 trillion) by 2050.
Aging in Armenia
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Life expectancy: 77.7 years overall, 74.1 for men, 81 for women (WHO, 2023).
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Old-age dependency ratio (15-64 year-olds vs. 65+): 1990 – 11:1, 2024 – 5:1, projected 2050 – about 3:1.
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Aging will significantly reshape Armenia’s age and gender structure, transforming the so-called “population pyramid.”
