Working with Families in an Aging Society

The global population is aging rapidly due to increased longevity and declining fertility rates. Projections indicate that the proportion of people aged 65 years or older will rise from 10% in 2022 to 16% in 2050. This trend has far-reaching implications for both families and society. For example, around the world, a considerable number of women are forced to leave their jobs to provide elder care due to the lack of available services. This often leads to negative consequences encompassing physical, emotional, and financial burdens, which some researchers have identified as a significant public health concern. On the other hand, many older adults are actively engaged in providing care for their families, particularly their grandchildren. This underscores the essential role that the elderly can play in families. It is imperative for society to take deliberate actions to promote the well-being of families in an aging society. This article presents trends of global aging and discusses the importance of supporting families based on a relational and multisystemic framework.