Aging in the Middle East with Special Focus on Iran

Abstract

In recent decades, Iran has experienced significant demographic changes, with a shift toward urbanization and changes in family size and structure, leading to significant impacts on the country’s social and economic landscape. One of the major demographic shifts is the increasing proportion of individuals aged 60 years and above, which indicates a demographic transition in Iran. This has resulted in significant implications for the country’s social, economic, and health systems. Among the challenges faced by Iran’s aging population are inadequate pension and social security systems, limited access to healthcare, and social isolation, with gender disparities revealing higher levels of poverty, disability, and chronic illness among women. However, aging in Iran has some positive aspects, with the role of a family deeply ingrained in the country’s culture, providing care and support to older adults. As Iran’s aging population continues to grow, there is a growing need for policies and programs that address the challenges, including improving healthcare access, promoting active aging, and strengthening social protection systems. Policymakers must develop innovative approaches to address the challenges, while seizing opportunities presented by Iran’s aging population.