As of 2025, the top 10 countries with the highest percentage of populations aged 65 and above are: Monaco (36.3%), Japan (29.5%), Italy (27.3%), Portugal (25.2%), Bulgaria (24.0%), Finland (23.8%), Greece (23.3%), Croatia (22.6%), Germany (22.0%), and France (21.7%). These nations face significant demographic challenges due to aging populations, impacting their healthcare systems, labor markets, and economic growth. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive policy reforms and social support systems.

Monaco holds the distinction of having the highest aging population globally, with 36% of its residents aged 65 and above. This demographic trend is attributed to Monaco’s high life expectancy and affluent lifestyle, attracting retirees. The aging population presents challenges in healthcare, pension systems, and workforce sustainability, necessitating strategic planning and policy interventions to ensure economic stability and social welfare.

Japan is experiencing a rapidly aging population, with over 29.5% of its citizens aged 65 and above as of 2025. Factors contributing to this trend include a low fertility rate of 1.3 and increased life expectancy. The demographic shift poses significant challenges to Japan’s economy, labor force, and social security systems, prompting the government to implement policies aimed at encouraging higher birth rates and extending retirement age.

Countries facing significant aging population problems include Monaco, Japan, Italy, Portugal, Bulgaria, Finland, Greece, Croatia, Germany and France. These nations are grappling with challenges such as shrinking workforces, increased healthcare costs, and pension sustainability. Addressing these issues requires comprehensive strategies encompassing immigration policies, retirement age adjustments, and incentives for higher birth rates to maintain economic stability and social cohesion.

Monaco is the oldest country globally by median age, with a median age of 56.9 years as of 2025. This high median age reflects the nation’s longevity and low birth rates. The demographic structure presents challenges in maintaining a balanced workforce and sustaining economic growth, necessitating policies that address the implications of an aging society.

The countries with the largest percentage of their population over 65 years are Monaco (36.3%), Japan (29.5%), Italy (27.3%), Portugal (25.2%), Bulgaria (24.0%), Finland (23.8%), Greece (23.3%), Croatia (22.6%), Germany (22.0%), and France (21.7%). These nations face significant demographic challenges, including increased healthcare demands and pension system pressures, requiring strategic policy responses to ensure sustainable development.

An aging population in countries like Japan and Italy leads to a shrinking workforce, increased healthcare expenditures, and heightened pension liabilities. These factors contribute to slower economic growth and fiscal pressures. For instance, Italy faces a brain drain as young professionals emigrate for better opportunities, undermining economic revitalization efforts. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive policies promoting labor force participation and sustainable social security systems.

Countries with the highest median ages include Monaco (56.9 years), Japan (49.9 years), and Italy (48.4 years). A high median age indicates a significant proportion of the population is elderly, reflecting low birth rates and high life expectancy. This demographic trend poses challenges such as labor shortages and increased demand for healthcare services, necessitating policies that address aging-related issues.

Monaco and Japan are implementing various strategies to address aging population challenges. Japan is investing in robotics and AI to support elderly care and has introduced policies to encourage higher birth rates. Monaco focuses on providing high-quality healthcare and social services to its aging residents. Both countries recognize the importance of adapting infrastructure and services to meet the needs of an older population.

Countries with rapidly aging populations face multifaceted challenges in healthcare and social services. The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases among the elderly necessitates comprehensive, coordinated care, often straining existing healthcare infrastructures. Additionally, social isolation is a significant concern, leading to adverse mental and physical health outcomes. These issues underscore the urgent need for policy reforms, increased funding, and innovative solutions to support aging populations effectively.