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BEST IELTS Writing Task 2, 11th August
IELTS WRITING TASK 2
IELTS WRITING TASK 2
Many developed countries now have large numbers of people over the age of 65. What problems might this cause? How can the problems be solved? Provide reasons for your answer, including relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
SAMPLE ANSWER
Today, there is an imbalance in the populations of developed countries. Declining birth rates and low immigration mean there are many more people over 65 years of age than those below. Despite a high standard of living, the ageing population is causing social and economic problems.
An ageing population, with many medical needs, may be a drain on health services. Where a developed country has a subsidised health service, this means that public funds are channelled more towards the aged than towards younger people. As a result, there may be reduced public funding of sectors such as education.
Those over 65 are usually eligible for state pensions, which they see as their right because they paid taxes when employed. However, this can cause tension between the young and the old.
Employment, too, is another area where the aged often benefit at the expense of those younger. Elderly people who are able, may work much longer than those who retired at 65. Some work from need; others because they are mentally, and in some cases physically, fit enough to continue. In the past, the older generation made way for the younger ones.
I suggest the following solutions. Firstly, through technological and medical advances, health care of the aged will continue to improve, making them less of a burden. To ensure that the public is not responsible for others’ health care, a national health insurance scheme should be compulsory.
Secondly, the pension age should be raised to match the fitness of the aged. Since many over 65 are already still working, this should not be too problematic. Also if a personal pension scheme is made obligatory from the age of 21, then later aged generations will not be a burden on the young.
Lastly, if more immigrants are encouraged to enter a developed country, they could not only fill in the generation gap, but also bring skills that may be lost as the workforce ages. Mechanics, technicians, doctors, nurses, engineers, and teachers all would be beneficial.
IELTS Writing Task 2