January Issue Focuses on Statistics and Aging

By 2050, more than a fifth of the global population will be aged 60 or older. Some have called it the most daunting demographic challenge facing the world, and, from a data perspective, we are not ready for it. There are, in fact, such significant gaps in the availability of age-disaggregated data, with such serious implications for advance planning, that the United Nations set up a special taskforce to investigate them. You can read about that investigation in this issue dedicated to the subject of old age.

You’ll also find a fascinating statistical examination of who gets to retire and who does not; suggestions for how academics can stay engaged with statistics after hanging up their cap and gown; an exploration of the complex issues around driving while old; and an in-depth interview with Karen Bandeen-Roche, a biostatistician renowned for her research into ageing and age-related frailty. We also share the story of how a northern Irish town with an aging demographic learned about itself thanks to a volunteer statistician and publish an extended Q&A section with four statisticians aged 86, 95, 96, and 98.

Older Persons in Global Statistics - A UN-commissioned group has been investigating data gaps and their impact on our aging population.

Retirement in the UK - Not every older person retires at the same age. Some do not want to or cannot afford to.

Reimagining Retirement for Statisticians - Advice on life after an academic career in statistical sciences.

Driving While Old - The complex issues around old age and fitness to drive.

Profile: Karen Bandeen-Roche - The gerontologist and statistician studies frailty and resilience in older adults.

Defining Donaghadee - How a volunteer statistician helped a northern Irish coastal town understand its identity.

Living Long and Prospering: A Q&A Special - Four statisticians in their 80s and 90s talk about their careers.

Access the entire issue.