Population Burden详细介绍.doc

Population Burden　　Many countries will experience aging populations in the next century because of declining birth and mortality rates. China will soon join their ranks.　　As for the issue of aging, its situation has been growing increasingly severe in spite of the fact most people are still ignorant of the problems it brings about. Firstly, with families becoming smaller and living pace escalating, it is even graver for families to care for aged members adequately. Secondly, aging causes a relative decline in working force in that fewer people have to support the increasing aged people. Consequently, the productivity of the whole society is affected to some extent. Thirdly and most importantly, the aging of population in China resulted from the successful implementation of family planning has not been synchronized with national economic progress.　　The rapidity of the populations aging has made it more urgent for the adoption of countermeasures. No doubt they key is to build a solid economic foundation. Meanwhile, importance shall be attached to overall social progress by changing the backward situation in social security, welfare and service. Whats more, family care and community services shall also be encouraged. White House Summit Addresses Challenges of Global Aging ?United Nations records show people the world over are getting older. This is due to better medicine and more food, even in developing countries. Another global statistic: there are fewer younger people able to provide health care and other services for the elderly. Other U.N. statistics show that by the year 2050, people 60 years or older will account for half of the increase in the worlds population. The United States is already experiencing nursing shortages and expects other staffing shortages in health care in the coming years. U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice described this trend as one of the greatest challenges that most nations will face this century. Nations around the world are