Ageing Population Name and explain two difficulties that an ageing population can cause for a country. - Leaving Cert Geography - Question C - 2009

Increased Healthcare Costs
An ageing population typically results in a higher prevalence of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, heart disease, and dementia. As the number of elderly individuals increases, the demand for healthcare services escalates, leading to higher public spending on healthcare. This can strain government budgets and resources, especially if the economic growth does not keep pace with the increasing costs of elderly care.

Declining Workforce Numbers
With a higher proportion of older individuals, there is a potential reduction in the working-age population. This demographic shift can lead to labor shortages, affecting productivity and economic output. Companies may struggle to find sufficient employees to fill roles, and a smaller workforce can hinder innovation and growth in various sectors.