Ageing and the Economic Welfare of Southeast Asian Nations

Abstract

Ageing is an issue larger than what is perceived by individuals and families and governments. For families, caring for the aged has both financial and social dimensions, while for governments, resources have to be found to support an ageing population in the form of better health and consequently a longer period of productivity which is as much an opportunity as a challenge. These issues are at the fore of the papers brought together in this special issue. The holistic view of ageing in this overview is juxtaposed against country papers that recall country experiences and are understandably more narrowly focused. Will these perspectives be bridged? That will depend on the visions of policymakers and the attitudinal changes of citizens.