Band 8+: The bar chart below shows information regarding the change in the percentage of the population aged 65 and above in three countries. Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

The bar chart compares the proportion of the population aged 65 and above in three countries (Canada, Germany and the UK) between 1980 and 2030.

Overall, the percentage of people aged 65 and over increased in all three countries over the period. However, Germany had the highest percentages, while Canada and the UK underwent steady growth.

In 1980, the figure for Canada experienced a moderate increase from 10% to 15% in 2000. Moreover, there was 22% rise in the population aged 65 and over in 2030. Initially, the UK recorded the lowest figure, at just under 13%, which then increased marginally to 15% in 2000. In contrast, the figure saw gradual growth to just under 20% at the end of the period.

In addition, the proportion of elderly people showed a consistent increase over the period. Germany stood at 15% in 1980, while this rose significantly to 20% in 2000. The figure continued to grow to nearly 25% in 2030, making Germany the country with the highest proportion among the three nations.