Final answer:
The 'dependency burden' refers to the ratio of the non-working segment of the population (aged 0-15 and over 65) to the working-age population. This ratio affects economic and social systems, especially as nations like China and the United States see their elderly populations grow.
Step-by-step explanation:
The proportion of the total population aged 0-15 and over 65 is known as the dependency burden. This term reflects the ratio of the segment of the population that is not in the workforce, which includes the young, disabled, or elderly, to those who are of typical working age and active in the labor market. As the dependency burden increases, there are fewer working-age individuals to support the non-working segments, thereby potentially placing a greater strain on social services, pensions, and the economy.
Countries, such as China, face significant challenges due to the anticipated increase in their elderly population. This demographic shift will dramatically influence the dependency ratio, affecting economic growth and workforce dynamics. Likewise, the United States has experienced a tripling of the senior population over the last century, which has implications for the dependency ratio and economic burden on the working-age population.