Economic Implications of Population Aging

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About this Research Topic

Submission deadlines

  1. Manuscript Summary Submission Deadline 15 January 2026 | Manuscript Submission Deadline 31 March 2026

  2. This Research Topic is currently accepting articles.

Background

The economics of aging is an increasingly pertinent field of study, drawing attention from economists, policymakers, and social scientists alike. As life expectancies rise and birth rates decline, many countries face significant demographic shifts that reshape their economic landscape. This trend raises important questions about the sustainability of pension systems, healthcare costs, and the demands on age-related social services. Recent studies have advanced our understanding of these factors, yet there remain significant knowledge gaps, particularly in how nations can adapt to maintain economic growth amidst a shrinking workforce and increasing dependency ratios.

This Research Topic aims to delve into the broad economic consequences of an aging population. It seeks to explore the interaction between aging, fiscal policy, and social welfare systems, while also addressing the impact of aging on labor markets, health expenditures, and intergenerational equity. The objective is to clarify how aging populations influence economic stability and growth, and to identify effective strategies for policymakers to mitigate challenges while capitalizing on the potential benefits an aging population might offer.

To gather further insights into the economics of aging, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Discrimination in labor markets: Age discrimination and public health interventions

- Gender differences in labor market outcomes: Impacts on older women

- Economic productivity in aging societies

- Fiscal sustainability of pension and healthcare systems

- Intergenerational equity and resource distribution

- Policy frameworks to support an aging population

- Innovative solutions for age-inclusive economic growth

- Technological advancements and aging populations

- Societal perceptions and stereotypes of aging

Topic Editors Ana Paula Beck da Silva Etges and Carisi Anne Polanczyk are the co-leads of PEV Healthcare Consulting. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject.

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  • Methods
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Keywords: economics, aging, aging population, health economics, population aging

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