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The word encompasses several stages of the life-span and a vast range of differences. For practical reasons, however, a statistical definition of old age has been used in demographic studies and
analysis and social policies relating to aging. For the purposes of the World Assembly, "the aging" are defined as those who are
60 years of age and over.
4.
II. DEMOGRAPHIC TRENDS AND PROJECTIONS (1950-2000)
This section of the report could present the demographic facts.
and trends within the country from 1950 to 2000.
5.
III. STATUS, CONDITIONS AND NEEDS OF THE AGING
This section of the report could describe the status, conditions,
and needs of the aging in the country, as well as the effect on
society as a whole of the aging of the population.
6. In this respect, countries may wish to follow the format proposed for the World Assembly on Aging, namely by dividing the description into two subtopics: humanitarian and developmental.
7. The main issues to be dealt with by the World Assembly on Aging
were identified by the Secretary-General as follows:
a) Humanitarian issues. The humanitarian issues are those related
to the specific needs of the aging. Although there are many matters that older persons share in common with all members of the population, certain issues affect their individual characteristics and requirements, and these are the ones it is proposed to group for substantive examination under this section. The humanitarian issues to be discussed at the World Assembly on Aging are: (i) health; (ii) housing and environment; (iii) social welfare; (iv) income security; (v) employment; (vi) education; (vii) the family; and (viii) participation in community activities.