Aging and the Macroeconomy: Long-Term Implications of an Older Population
Board on Mathematical Sciences and Their Applications; Division on Engineering and Physical Science; Committee on Population; Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education; National Research Council
NAS Press | 2012 | ISBN: 0309261961 9780309261968 | 231 pages | PDF | 6 MB



This book presents the fundamental factors driving the aging of the U.S. population, as well as its societal implications and likely long-term macroeconomic effects in a global context.

The report finds that, while population aging does not pose an insurmountable challenge to the nation, it is imperative that sensible policies are implemented soon to allow companies and households to respond. It offers four practical approaches for preparing resources to support the future consumption of households and for adapting to the new economic landscape.

The United States is in the midst of a major demographic shift. In the coming decades, people aged 65 and over will make up an increasingly large percentage of the population: The ratio of people aged 65+ to people aged 20-64 will rise by 80%. This shift is happening for two reasons: People are living longer, and many couples are choosing to have fewer children and to have those children somewhat later in life.

Contents
SUMMARY
1 INTRODUCTION
2 OVERVIEW
3 DEMOGRAPHIC TRENDS
4 HEALTH AND DISABILITY IN THE WORKING-AGE AND ELDERLY POPULATIONS
5 LABOR FORCE PARTICIPATION AND RETIREMENT
6 AGING, PRODUCTIVITY AND INNOVATION
7 SAVING AND RETIREMENT SECURITY
8 CAPITAL MARKETS AND RATES OF RETURN
9 THE OUTLOOK FOR FISCAL POLICY
10 RESEARCH RECOMMENDATIONS
REFERENCES
APPENDIXES
A: Population and Related Projections Made by the Committee
B: Biographical Sketches of Committee Members and Staff