Only when the old age problem is well handled can we maintain a stable and harmonious society.

Optimists believe China still has several more years before the economic impact of an ageing population becomes apparent.

There is a daunting list of things to be done, and Japan, like its elderly citizens, tends not to be keen on change.

The nearer a society approximates to zero population growth, the older its population is likely to be - at least, for any future that concerns us now.