[Culturechat] Old Folks

[Vance Roy]

The CH office of statistics says that  by 2028, the population here will
be increased from today's 7.2 million to 7.4 million. By 2060, the
number drops to 7.1 million. With their "positive scenario" the
population will grow to 8.7 million by 2060. The "negative scenario" has
that figure at 5.6 million. The difference between the two scenarios is
determined by birth trend, life span, migrations, and work opportunities.

It is estimated that by 2060, there will be 11 % drop in people UNDER 60
years of age. At the same time the number of 80 year olds will be 8 %
higher. By 2060, the median age will rise from today's 37.8 years to
42.2. This means that instead of today's 4:1, the ratio of workers to
retirees will be 2:1.

Locally, in Luzern, every fourth person is now over 65 years of age.
Twenty years ago, this was every eighth person. The number of 80+ year
olds is presently 7.8 %, a doubling in the last two decades.

One can see that the old age pensions, social security, etc. systems are
going to change both here and elsewhere.
-- 
Vance Roy
gigli.saw@dplanet.ch.