Why are older persons vital agents for development in Asia?

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Older Persons are Indispensable Agents of Development in Asia Due to Their Economic Contributions, Caregiving Roles, and Community Engagement

Older individuals across Asia and the Pacific are far more than recipients of care; they are active contributors to sustainable development. With improved health leading to longer, more active lives, this demographic significantly bolsters the labour force, particularly in informal sectors, and provides essential unpaid care that enables younger family members to participate in paid employment. Their continued engagement, supported by lifelong learning and the dismantling of age-based discrimination, allows them to share valuable knowledge, volunteer, and contribute to community resilience, thereby playing a crucial role in the region's progress.
Older Persons Significantly Bolster the Labour Force, Especially in Informal Sectors

The participation of older individuals in the workforce is a notable factor in Asia's development. In Thailand, for instance, a substantial one-third of those aged 65 and above are engaged in labour. This participation is particularly pronounced among women, with 87% of working women in this age group in Thailand operating within the informal sector, a trend mirrored across the region. This demonstrates that older persons continue to contribute economically, filling vital roles and sustaining economic activity, even beyond traditional formal employment structures.
Unpaid Caregiving by Older Persons Enables Paid Labour for Younger Generations

Beyond direct economic participation, older persons provide critical unpaid care for both children and other elderly individuals. This essential service acts as a cornerstone for families, allowing younger members the flexibility to pursue paid work, whether in urban centres or through overseas employment. This intergenerational support system is fundamental to maintaining household economic stability and contributes indirectly but significantly to the overall economic productivity of the region by freeing up the prime working-age population.
Lifelong Learning and Combating Ageism Unlock Full Societal Contribution

To fully harness the potential of older persons, access to lifelong learning, including digital literacy, is paramount. This enables them to navigate services, maintain social connections, and remain competitive in the evolving labour market. Furthermore, addressing age-based discrimination is crucial for their complete integration into economic and social life. By overcoming these barriers, older individuals can more effectively volunteer, as seen during the Covid-19 pandemic in distributing aid and monitoring community health, and share their expertise in areas such as climate change mitigation and adaptation.

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Why are older persons vital agents for development in Asia?

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