As a result of advances in medical care. Average life expectancy is increasing for men and women. Do you think most people will see this as a positive development? What are the disadvantages of an ageing population for individuals and society? Support your point of view with reasons and/or examples from your own experience or observations.
Due to advances in medical care, the average life expectancy is increasing for both men and women. I believe that most people will see this as a positive development as it means that their loved ones such as their parents are healthier and are also able to live longer. However, an increase in life expectancy may also have some disadvantages to individuals and society.
Firstly, one of the disadvantages of an increased life expectancy is the financial stress that may affect certain families. The elderly are more prone and vulnerable to sickness, and they would have to be sent to hospitals regularly for checkups. These checkups are usually very expensive and will have to be funded by family members if the patient does not have the adequate funding. Situations like these can severe family ties or even cause arguments within families
Furthermore, an increase in life expectancy also means that there will be an increase in unemployed people. Governments may not see this favorably as it means that there will be a need to build more residential units that may cost money. The economy of the country may also be affected by the construction of new houses which limits the space that can be used for tourism purposes.
In conclusion, although an increase in life expectancy is usually regarded highly, there are also some underlying disadvantages that have to be recognized. Therefore, governments should start making plans to ensure that these disadvantages are controlled.