For the first time in recorded history, the worldwide population aged 65 and older has surpassed the population aged 5 and younger, according to a new report released today by the U.S. Census Bureau. The report, titled "An Aging World: 2025," highlights that the global population is aging at an unprecedented rate.
The U.S. Census Bureau projects that the share of the world population aged 65 and older will nearly double, increasing from 10.5% in 2025 to 19.6% by 2060. This significant demographic shift indicates a rapid acceleration in global aging trends.
In 2025, the United States ranked as the 48th oldest country out of 227, with 18.9% of its population aged 65 or older. While older adults are projected to constitute 23.4% of the U.S. population by 2060, the nation is expected to fall to 110th place globally as other countries experience even more rapid aging.