Foreword (November 2024, Health and Welfare Policy Forum)

Abstract

The November issue of the Health and Welfare Forum focuses on the “National Survey of Older Koreans and Old Age Living.” Mandated by Article 5 of the Welfare of Senior Citizens Act, the survey launched in 2018 and has been conducted every three years, with 2023 marking its sixth wave. This latest survey is especially significant in that it adequately captures the dynamics of the current and changing characteristics of older Koreans, conducted as it was at a time when, with baby boomers beginning to enter the 65-and-older population in large numbers, the proportion of those aged 65 to 69 rose to nearly 35 percent of the elderly population while, with the average life expectancy on the rise, individuals aged 85 and over for the first time surpassed the 10-percent mark. Also, given that the 65-plus population is on the brink of exceeding 20 percent of the national population, this survey provides the closest preview of the upcoming ‘super-aged society’. Our November issue presents a picture of Korean older adults’ lives in five dimensions: working life, leisure, health and care status, familial and social relationships, and perceptions of living conditions and old-age living. Drawing on the findings, our discussions explore potential improvements to enhance the quality of life for older adults and provide insights into preparing for a super-aged society. Though this issue does not cover all survey findings, we hope it will broaden public understanding of old-age living, foster academic and policy discussions, and support efforts to build a healthy super-aged society.