Positive demography: changing the perspective on population aging from the Age-It Research Program

Objectives The focus on the negative—at times depicted as catastrophic—consequences of population aging have overshadowed more optimistic stances. In this position article, we advance the notion of “positive demography,” which—while acknowledging existing challenges—contends that since a new demographic phase is inevitable, high-income countries should focus on making the most of it. We discuss this view with reference to Italy, one of the fastest-aging countries in the world, drawing lessons from Spoke 1 (The Demography of Aging) of the Age-It Research Program. Methods We integrate different perspectives from social research on aging, informed by the most up-to-date literature in demography. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of demographic changes, highlighting their benefits while proposing forward-looking policy solutions. Results Longer life expectancy and improved health outcomes create opportunities for extended workforce participation and intergenerational contributions. Bridging the gap between desired and actual fertility is feasible through structural policies. Migration, at least in the short term, offers a means to mitigate aging-related challenges and accelerate demographic renewal. Discussion A positive demography agenda extends beyond addressing aging-related needs; it requires investments in younger generations to help them prepare for long and fulfilling lives. Achieving this vision necessitates interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation in data collection, and a methodological shift from forecasting to backcasting—identifying present actions necessary to shape a desirable demographic future.