Japan has reached a new milestone in longevity, with over 95,119 people aged 100 or older, nearly 90% of whom are women, according to data released by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare on September 1, 2024. This figure marks an increase of 2,980 centenarians from the previous year and highlights the rapid pace of aging in the nation.
The number of elderly (aged 65 and above) also hit a record 36.25 million, now accounting for 29.3% of the population. These trends place Japan firmly at the top among countries with more than 100,000 citizens in terms of elderly population proportion. Meanwhile, Japan’s total population continues to decline, now standing at 124 million—down 595,000 from the previous year—due to low birth rates and high longevity.
A Looming Economic Concern
The increasing number of elderly citizens is placing unprecedented pressure on Japan’s social welfare and healthcare systems. The shrinking labor force is struggling to support the growing retired population, leading to concerns over long-term economic sustainability.
To combat the demographic imbalance, the Japanese government has implemented measures such as raising the retirement age. Starting fiscal year 2025, the standard retirement age will officially be 65 for all employers. However, experts note that these efforts have so far had limited impact on reversing the decline.
Why It Matters
Japan’s demographic dilemma is a warning for other aging nations. As countries across Europe and Asia begin to experience similar trends, Japan offers a live case study of the challenges and potential solutions facing aging societies worldwide.
Will policy changes come fast enough to support Japan’s aging population, or will economic and social pressures continue to mount? The answer may shape the global conversation on aging and sustainability.
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