The  United Nations , in a recent report, has warned that there will be  at least 1 Billion  over 60 s  in the world  within the next decade. Although  ageing is one of the greatest achievements  and gifts of modern era, it also poses significant degree of challenge.  Welfare, Pensions, Health and social care  and the very fabric of society must get ready to meet such  age  phenomenon. <p>

A third of the babies born  today are likely to reach their 100th  birthday and there will be  around  500000 centenarians in Britain alone in another  5 decades.   3.2   million  centenarians throughout the globe by then !!!<p>

Sadly , we still depict  age as a  'burden'  and  describe only its  'negative'  aspects.  The fact  is that only a small section of the aged need  full time care

either from their relations or   from the state.  The vast majority  live happily going about their own business without bothering anyone! And that is what  we should all encourage  - ACTIVE  AGEING  , INDEPENDENT AGEING  , HAPPY AGEING....

People should also bear in mind that  retired people continue to contribute to the country's economy . In China   52 million  young children are regualrly looked after by their grandparents allowing  , thereby, their young  mothers to go to work  -  helping  not only their own households and families but the country as a whole.  To a certain extent this happens in other countries too including this one.  

We  must prepare ourselves  for these demographic changes  and try to make our societies  age-friendly  in every sphere of activity and  facility.