riippuvuuslukuina

Riippuvuuslukuina, also known as the dependence ratio, is a demographic measure that reflects the number of dependents in a population. The term "riippuvuus" is Finnish for dependence or dependency. A dependency ratio is the ratio of the number of dependents to the number of working-age individuals in a population. Dependents are usually defined as those individuals who are not of working age, such as children and the elderly, who rely on working-age individuals for financial support.

The riippuvuusluku (singular form) is typically calculated by dividing the number of dependents, which includes the population aged 0-15 and 65+, by the number of working-age individuals, which is usually defined as those aged 15-64. The resulting ratio can be expressed either as a number of dependents per 100 working-age individuals or as a percentage.

Riippuvuuslukuina can be used as a tool to help understand the social and economic implications of changing population structures. A high dependency ratio can indicate a society where a smaller workforce has to support a larger number of dependents, potentially leading to economic challenges. Conversely, a low dependency ratio may suggest a society with a relatively large workforce and fewer dependents, potentially leading to economic advantages.

Riippuvuuslukuina can be influenced by a variety of factors, including fertility rates, mortality rates, and migration patterns. It is an important demographic indicator that can be used to inform policy decisions related to issues such as pension funding, education, and healthcare.