Population ageing in Europe. Facts, implications and policies

This publication focuses on the challenges and opportunities of population ageing in Europe. Reviewing the outcomes of EU-funded research in social sciences funded under the sixth and the seventh framework programmes, it aims to address the question of how the EU is preparing for advanced population ageing and what type of public policies it should pursue.

In order to set the stage, the document first gives the broader context with an analysis of the European approach to demographic change by presenting the main EU policy initiatives in this area. In the second chapter, the book discusses the many dimensions of population ageing, presenting first the different theories and research approaches, then analysing the intergenerational aspects of ageing and finally considering the issue of well-being at older age. The third chapter focuses on the impacts of population ageing on economic growth and the labour market. It presents the current situation and future trends regarding the labour force in the EU, considering also the challenges of reconciliation of work and family life as well as employability of the ageing workforce. The chapter then provides an analysis of the processes underlying the transition to retirement and closes by exploring the links between human capital in an ageing society, labour markets and economic growth.

The book concludes with an exploration of public policies supporting smart, sustainable and inclusive growth in the times of population ageing. This final chapter provides insights into how to transform ageing-related challenges into opportunities for the EU and how to manage the inter- and intra-generational balance in support of economic growth and well-being