Breadcrumb Home Research Findings Myth Busts Open share Close Share Close Myth Busts Our thinking about age is shaped by a “generational view”. We see older and younger people as categorically different. This is a myth, of course. In fact, no matter our age we all share similar life courses. This is why demographers like to employ the “life course perspective”. We needn't resign to becoming more and more frail. In fact, not all older people are frail and, even more importantly, frailty is reversible. It can be prevented and treated to enable a healthier life. Let's do some math: If older people cost more in terms of healthcare, then healthcare must get more and more expensive in ageing societies. Right? Not quite! A superficial mathematical projection which falls apart on a closer look. Most economic models presume that "productivity" goes down with age. This myth is deeply engrained. Fact is, everyone, regardless of age, contributes. Not always paid, but of value to the economy nonetheless. It is a myth that older people outright refuse new technologies. The fact is that most tech is desiged in a way that makes it difficult or impossible for older people to use. Some are afraid that “robots will take our jobs”. Others are sure that automation solve one of our skills shortage. Both is a myth. The fact is, automation will neither save us, nor will it take our jobs. Many count on migration to "fix" skill shortages in ageing societies. In the short term, this can work. However, it is a myth that migration counters population ageing in a sustainable way.
