A Comparison of Global Aging Trends: Exploring the Path from "Healthy Aging" to "Active Aging" - Case Studies Based on Japan, Northern Europe and China

Abstract

The global population structure is undergoing a profound aging transformation, driving the concepts of "healthy aging" and "active aging" to gradually evolve from focusing on the maintenance of individual physical health to a comprehensive framework emphasizing social participation, equal opportunities, and the development of the entire life cycle. This article aims to deeply analyze how cultural background, institutional arrangements and social structure shape the differentiated paths for each country to deal with aging by comparing three typical cases: Japan (ultra-aged society and cultural tradition integration), Northern Europe (high welfare system and universalist design), and China (rapid aging and aging before getting rich). The core research finds that the governance model for aging is deeply influenced by cultural values, the maturity of the welfare system, and the intergenerational relationship structure. Among them, the construction of social support networks, the collaboration of multiple subjects, and the integration of life-cycle policies are key variables. The implications for China lie in the fact that it is necessary to base itself on the local filial piety culture and the stage of social and economic development. While strengthening the family-based elderly care function, it is also necessary to accelerate the construction of a multi-level elderly care security system, promote the construction of an age-friendly environment, and actively explore aging response plans that are culturally adaptable, institutional resilient and social innovative.