The elderly : a local perspective

Abstract

The main aim of this integrated essay is to try to investigate objectively the present and future population trends and some of the problems related to ageing and ageing societies. It is also aimed at proposing considerations for the future when considering pensions and pension financing. Since this is a vast subject I am going to limit a lot of my work to retirement and its effects. The various arguments that are being used for and against altering the retirement age will be discussed. This will be done with special reference to developments both on the local scene and in the European Union. The main reason for taking in consideration the European Union is our closeness to the European Union and Malta's formal application for membership. According to the Vienna International Plan of Action on Ageing (UN, 1983), some of the problems that are related to the ageing of populations are: 'effects on production, consumption, savings, investment and in turn general social and economic conditions and policies, especially at times when the dependency rate of ageing is on the increase'. The purpose of the UN General Assembly meeting held in Vienna in 1982 was, "to launch an international act ion programme aimed at guaranteeing economic and social security to older persons, as well as opportunities to contribute to national development" (UN. 1983).