The increasing life expectancy enjoyed by individuals around the world is a remarkable sign of progress. According to UNFPA, there were nearly 810 million adults aged 60 and over worldwide in 2013, two-thirds of whom lived in low- and middle-income countries; by 2050, the population of older adults is expected to reach 2 billion, with 80 per cent living in low- and middle-income countries.
This dramatic demographic change comes with significant opportunities, as well as challenges. Chief among these is how to ensure equity, a decent standard of living, and continued social participation for older adults. The legal and policy framework surrounding equal rights and non-discrimination, income protection, and other areas is a critical concern.
The WORLD Policy Analysis Center has developed globally comparative, quantitatively analyzable data on several areas relevant to older adults.
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