Around the world, people are now living longer than ever before in the past. Some say an aging population creates problems for governments. Others believe there are benefits to society having more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of possessing an aging population outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample Response 1

It is indisputable that life expectancies have increased in recent decades due to improved living conditions and advancements in medical treatments. While some argue that the aging population poses a burden on the country, there are still advocates who support their needs. In my opinion, I believe that elder individuals are still valuable to societies, and their contributions can outweigh any disadvantages.

On one hand, senior citizens can actively participate in governmental and private sectors. Their extensive experience makes them valuable contributors to decision-making processes. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the health department in Bangladesh established an advisory body consisting of experts, including older individuals, to monitor and provide advice on the situation. As a result, the number of deaths and infections was relatively low. Moreover, elderly individuals can serve as mentors or trainers in various fields, imparting their knowledge and expertise to younger generations. Furthermore, working parents can entrust their children to their grandparents, ensuring their safety at home and potentially saving on the costs of daycare centers.

On the other hand, some people argue that the aging population, as they may no longer be part of the regular workforce and rely on state benefits, becomes a burden. Western countries, for example, spend a significant amount of money on healthcare and support for the elderly. Some argue that instead of allocating these resources, the funds could be invested in other essential sectors. However, it is important to recognize that these individuals have contributed to the development of society throughout their working years, thus deserving necessary treatments and support as their rights.

In conclusion, although there are some drawbacks to having a large aging population, their contributions should be viewed positively. Therefore, I completely disagree with the claim that elderly individuals are burdensome.