Economic Burden or Economic Potential? Reframing Aging Populations in Social Policy and Market Development: A Systematic Literature Review

The phenomenon of population aging is a global demographic challenge with significant economic and social implications. This study aims to systematically review the literature discussing population aging from two main perspectives: as an economic burden and as an economic potential. The results of the review indicate that aging can create fiscal pressures through increased spending on health, pensions, and long-term care, but also open up growth opportunities through older adults’ labor force participation, the development of a silver economy, and active aging policies. Countries that are able to integrate social policies, lifelong learning, and market innovation demonstrate a higher capacity to convert aging into economic development potential. Thus, aging is not a demographic crisis, but rather a catalyst for social policy reform and the strengthening of inclusive markets in an era of sustainable economics.