Impacts of Population Aging in Modern Japan and Possible Solutions for the Future

Abstract

Japan is currently experiencing a diminishing of its population coupled with a demographic crisis, where the percentage of individuals over the age of 65 is increasing rapidly. This demographic shift is already bringing about a number of social and economic consequences across the nation. According to projections, the Japanese economy is headed for disaster. As the population declines and ages, the workforce gets smaller and the numbers of elderly in need of care increases. This thesis explores the social and economic impacts of population aging, along with taking a look at what actions are being taken to combat these issues as well as looking at some possible solutions. Its purpose is to advance our understanding of population aging and the changes it brings. Multiple other nations are headed in the same direction as Japan in regards to population decline and aging, and it is therefore important to study the case of Japan as it will be valuable information in the years to come.