The Commonwealth Association for the Ageing – CommonAge was founded in 2013 to promote the interests of older people across its 56 member countries, representing 2.7 billion people across the globe. Today, its mission feels more urgent than ever.
A landmark report from CommonAge and its partners calls on member nations to act now to prepare for a rapidly ageing population. While 60% of the Commonwealth’s 2.7 billion people are under the age of 30, that picture is changing fast. By 2050, the proportion of older adults will have doubled—a demographic shift that will touch every community, economy, and care system across the Commonwealth.
The First Report of Its Kind
Published in 2023, the CommonAge report is the first comprehensive look at how population ageing will affect all 56 Commonwealth nations. It urges governments and organizations to include older people in every stage of policy planning, development, and implementation.
The report also underscores the widening divide in preparedness. Countries such as Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom have well-established aged-care systems. But many low- and middle-income countries are struggling with critical shortages of health-care workers and infrastructure to support ageing populations.
The Challenges Ahead
Across the Commonwealth, nations face shared challenges: limited access to health and long-term care, social isolation, discrimination, and the need for affordable housing and employment opportunities for older adults. Without decisive action, these issues could strain communities and public systems alike.
As former Commonwealth Secretary-General the Rt Hon Patricia Scotland KC put it, “Our ability to build inclusive societies depends on recognizing the growing number of older people and supporting their participation in all aspects of life.”
An Opportunity for Collective Action
CommonAge’s report outlines a clear path forward—one that focuses on inclusion, equity, and investment. It calls for:
- Greater investment in healthy and active ageing.
- Stronger and more resilient social-care systems.
- Age-inclusive policies that ensure older people are not left behind.
Building an age-inclusive Commonwealth will require more than new programs—it calls for a shift in mindset. The traditional divide between “developed” and “developing” nations is no longer useful when every member country is experiencing the impact of demographic change.
Looking Ahead
Population ageing is not a crisis to be managed; it’s an opportunity to create stronger, more connected societies. The future of the Commonwealth depends on recognizing the value, experience, and potential of its older citizens—and ensuring they have the support and inclusion they deserve.
CommonAge’s message is clear: a Commonwealth that values its elders is one that secures its future. Download the full report for additional information.
