What traits do the oldest people worldwide share? Madison Trust Company might have dug up answers with its insightful map displaying nations that have substantial populations aged 65 and older.
Look more into each age bracket with data divided into cohorts of 65-74, 75-84, and 85 and beyond. You’ll find that Japan has the highest elderly population whether you’re examining the oldest or youngest end of the elderly spectrum. The map's color-coded design brings our eyes directly to the “oldest” regions, like Japan. Other countries that stand out include Italy, Portugal, and Greece, all displaying similar demographic trends. They’re not the only leaders in longevity though. In Germany, Bulgaria, Croatia, France, Latvia, and Serbia over 20% of the population is over age 65. A map was a fascinating choice for this topic since we can look at elderly populations grouped in different regions and ask what they have in common. You might note that both Japanese diets and Mediterranean diets include a lot of fish, which doctors often point to as factors in longer lives.
Infographic by: madisontrust