Monaco Tops Japan As The World's 'Oldest' Nation

Many countries in the Western world are concerned about falling birth rates and aging societies, which put pressure on healthcare, pension systems, and economic productivity. A visualization by Visual Capitalist ranks countries by the share of their population aged 65 and over, with estimates for 2025. Monaco has the highest share of older adults at 37%, followed by Japan with 30%, which also has the fourth-largest senior population. Italy, Puerto Rico, and Portugal also have high shares of older adults. Many European nations, including Germany, France, and Sweden, are seeing a significant increase in older adults, which reflects low birth rates and increasing life expectancy. This demographic shift poses unique challenges for sustaining welfare and pension systems, and may force governments to shift priorities away from education and other services for younger demographics. Smaller territories like Monaco, Martinique, and Montserrat have disproportionately high senior shares, which may require governments to prioritize senior-focused healthcare and services. Japan's demographic profile has raised concerns over labor shortages and economic growth, prompting policymakers to respond with automation and immigration strategies. The growing population of older adults is influencing political and economic priorities across Europe, including unrest over increasing retirement ages. Overall, the aging population is a pressing issue that requires policymakers to adapt and find solutions to support dependent groups.