Question

geographic perspectives: interpreting dependency numbers (p.70)
1.since niger has a large youth dependent population (under age 15), describe a potential economic benefit and problem that country could face.

1. countries like the united states have large dependent population over age 65. describe a potential economic benefit and problem these countries could face.
2. why do you think age 65 is used as the age of elderly dependency? is it an appropriate age for elderly dependency? explain your response.

Explanation:

1. Benefit: In the long - term, as the large youth population matures, they can form a large, young, and potentially productive workforce, driving economic growth through innovation and high - energy labor. Problem: In the short - term, there is a high burden on resources like education and healthcare for this large youth population, and if job creation doesn't keep up, high youth unemployment can occur.
2. Benefit: Elderly can contribute through their experience in consulting, part - time work in certain sectors, and can drive demand in industries like healthcare and senior living services. Problem: There is a strain on pension and social security systems, and a higher demand for healthcare services which can be costly for the government and taxpayers.
3. Age 65 is a common retirement age in many countries, so it's used as a marker for elderly dependency as people often stop full - time work around this age and may require more social support. It may not be entirely appropriate as people are living longer and healthier lives, and some may continue to work past 65. Also, different individuals have different levels of physical and mental ability at 65, so a one - size - fits - all approach may not accurately capture dependency.

Answer:

1. Potential economic benefit: Future large, productive workforce. Problem: Short - term resource burden and potential youth unemployment.
2. Potential economic benefit: Experience - based contributions and demand in certain industries. Problem: Strain on pension and healthcare systems.
3. Reason for 65 as age: Commonly associated with retirement. Appropriateness: May not be fully appropriate due to varying individual abilities and longer life expectancies.