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.

These days, there is an ongoing debate between people whether advances in medical care and increase in life expectancy is a positive development. While it is possible that some people will claim that it is detrimental, a vast majority will welcome this improvement. The advantages and disadvantages of older population are discussed in this essay.

There are several reasons why humans love increase in average life span for self and fellow beings. One of them is that they can spend longer years with their loved ones. Moreover, fast paced world economy has increased competition and people have to struggle for longer years before they can establish a career and start a family life. Therefore, they need to live longer in order to support their children.

On the contrary, the main disadvantage of aged people is that they reduce the number of opportunities for youngsters in workplaces. Further, other problems might arise like low production, lack of modern outlook and innovation. For example, a person becomes head of the department on the basis of his seniority but is oblivious to new ideas. If he does not accept new suggestions and improvements, then he limits the growth of the organization by continuing to work in old fashioned way.

While there are strong arguments on both sides of the case, my personal opinion is that the benefits of ageing population outweigh the harms. I would strongly recommend that youngsters look upon elders as a source of inspiration, motivation and benefit from their experience.