Aging in Social and Economic Dimension

This chapter looks at aging and its economic and social impacts over the life of an individual as well as society focusing on demographics, and thoughts on retirement and lifestyle. Since aging does not operate in a vacuum, it is necessary to take a broader perspective. Information presented in this chapter starts with a general picture of key demographic, economic and retirement information in the US and Poland. These demographic indicators are then followed by an overview of the Polish pension system. The core of the chapter is dedicated to a more detailed presentation of social and economic implications of aging in the US and Poland. Also reviewed is the role of healthy lifestyles for seniors that influence the quality of life. It concludes with a discussion of the Right to Adequate Housing from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and new players in the senior living market.