The Worst Countries for Older Residents

There are approximately 868 million people across the globe who are at least sixty years or older.  This comprises about twelve percent of the world’s population and by 2050, it is estimated that more than two billion people, or 21% of the global population will be sixty or older. 

HelpAge International recently ranked the social and economic well-being of older residents in ninety-six countries in the “Global AgeWatch 2014 Index.”  The report rated each country on four broad factors important to an aging population: supporting income security, fostering good health, employment and education, and the overall environment for older residents.  While Norway was rated the best country for elder residents, Afghanistan was rated the worst country for older people for the second consecutive year.  Provided below are the worst countries to grow old in according to the report:

1. Afghanistan
2. Mozambique
3. West Bank and Gaza
4. Malawi
5. The United Republic of Tanzania
6. Pakistan
7. Jordan
8. Uganda
9. Zambia
10. Iraq

See Alexander E.M. Hess and Thomas C. Frohlich, The Worst Countries to Grow Old In, USA Today, Oct. 12, 2014.

Special thanks to Jim Hillhouse (Professional Legal Marketing (PLM, Inc.)) for bringing this article to my attention.