Életkorösszetétel

Életkorösszetétel refers to the distribution of individuals within a population across different age groups. This demographic characteristic is a fundamental indicator of a population's structure and can have significant implications for social, economic, and healthcare planning. Understanding the age structure helps in predicting future trends such as labor force participation, dependency ratios, and the demand for specific services.

Populations can be broadly categorized into three age groups: children and young people (typically 0-14 years), working-age adults (15-64 years), and older adults (65 years and over). The proportion of individuals in each of these groups defines the population's age composition. A population with a high proportion of young people is considered youthful, often characteristic of developing countries with high birth rates. Conversely, a population with a large proportion of older adults is considered aging, common in developed nations with lower fertility rates and longer life expectancies.

Changes in életkorösszetétel are primarily driven by fertility rates, mortality rates, and migration. For instance, a declining birth rate leads to a smaller proportion of young people, while increased life expectancy results in a larger proportion of older individuals. These shifts influence various societal aspects, including pension systems, healthcare needs, and the availability of a skilled workforce. Analyzing the age structure is therefore crucial for policymakers to develop effective strategies that address the evolving needs of their populations.