The line graph illustrates the projected number of older citizens in Germany across three distinct age cohorts between 2020 and 2050.
Overall, the population of those aged 65 and above is anticipated to expand substantially until the mid-2030s, after which it will undergo a moderate contraction. By contrast, the oldest segment, consisting of individuals over 80, will demonstrate uninterrupted growth throughout the entire period.
In terms of increases, the total elderly population is forecast to climb from approximately 18 million in 2020 to a peak of nearly 24 million by 2035. A comparable upward trajectory is evident among those aged 65-79, whose numbers will advance from around 13 million to about 17 million in the same year. The most striking expansion, however, is predicted in the over-80 cohort: this figure will rise consistently from roughly 6 million in 2020 to close to 10 million by 2050, with no downturn foreseen.
Turning to decreases, both the overall 65+ population and the 65-79 group are projected to decline after reaching their zenith in 2035. The total number of senior citizens will fall slightly to approximately 22 million by the end of the period, while the 65-79 bracket will contract more noticeably, dropping back to its initial level of around 13 million.
In summary, although minor reductions are expected in some groups after 2035, the demographic trend for Germany points towards a sustained ageing of its population, driven above all by the relentless expansion of the over-80 category.