The role of families in an ageing Australia
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December 2003
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Abstract
Families have a central place in the population ageing debate. This article looks at the role of families and the challenges they face in changing social and economic circumstances. It endorses a life cycle approach to responding to the challenges of population ageing. Policy responses suggested focus on four key issues: first, the importance of increasing the opportunities for economic participation; second, consolidating retirement incomes; third, supporting family formation and resilience; and fourth, responding to ageing communities.
Families have a central place in the population ageing debate. This article looks at the role of families and the challenges they face in changing social and economic circumstances. It endorses a life cycle approach to responding to the challenges of population ageing. Policy responses suggested focus on four key issues: first, the importance of increasing the opportunities for economic participation; second, consolidating retirement incomes; third, supporting family formation and resilience; and fourth, responding to ageing communities.