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cover of episode 638. Are You Ready for the Elder Swell?

638. Are You Ready for the Elder Swell?

2025/6/27
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Freakonomics Radio

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People
A
Andrew Scott
C
Celine Halioua
J
James Chappell
K
Kyla Scanlon
S
Stephen Dubner
以《怪诞经济学》系列著名的美国作家、记者和广播电视人物。
Topics
Stephen Dubner: 我观察到美国人口结构正在发生显著变化,65岁以上的人口将在未来十年内超过18岁以下的人口。这种转变不仅体现在寿命的延长上,更重要的是人们在更长的时间内保持健康状态。然而,现有的社会保障和医疗体系面临着前所未有的挑战,需要我们重新审视和调整。 Kyla Scanlon: 作为一名经济评论员,我对人口老龄化带来的经济和社会影响深感兴趣。我关注的问题包括退休保障、医疗保健系统的可持续性以及如何应对劳动力市场萎缩等挑战。我认为,我们需要更深入地了解经济运作方式,以便更好地应对老龄化带来的问题。 James Chappell: 作为历史学家,我研究了美国社会应对老龄化的历史。我发现,过去几十年里,美国在老年保障方面取得了显著进展,例如社会保障和医疗保险的建立。然而,现有的体系已经无法完全满足日益增长的老年人口的需求。我认为,我们需要在老年护理、社会保障和医疗保健领域进行创新,以确保老年人能够过上有尊严的生活。 Andrew Scott: 作为经济学家,我认为老龄化既是挑战也是机遇。寿命的延长意味着我们有更多的时间去学习、工作和享受生活。然而,我们也需要应对健康、财富、技能和人际关系等方面的挑战。我认为,我们需要重新设计工作,鼓励终身学习,并投资于预防性医疗保健,以实现长寿红利。

Deep Dive

Chapters
This chapter explores the surprising demographic trend of a growing elderly population, surpassing the younger generation within the next decade. It examines the causes of this shift, including declining birth rates and increased life expectancy. The focus shifts to the concept of 'healthspan,' highlighting advancements in health and longevity.
  • In 10 years, there will be more people over 65 than under 18 in the U.S.
  • This is due to lower fertility rates and increased life expectancy.
  • Increased healthspan is as important as increased lifespan.

Shownotes Transcript

In the U.S., there will soon be more people over 65 than there are under 18 — and it’s not just lifespan that’s improving, it’s “healthspan” too. Unfortunately, the American approach to aging is stuck in the 20th century. In less than an hour, we try to unstick it. (Part three of a three-part series, “Cradle to Grave).”)