Final answer:
Managing an aging population is more challenging than managing a youthful one because of the specific care, healthcare, and social adjustments that need to be in place. High-income countries, such as the United States, are already facing such challenges as their elderly population grows, while low-income countries are predicted to face similar issues by 2050.
Step-by-step explanation:
Managing an aging population is generally considered more challenging than a youthful population. High-income countries with an increasing share of elderly citizens face unique challenges such as the need for more elder care facilities, adjustments in social institutions, and concerns about labor shortages due to retirement. The United States, for example, is experiencing the 'graying of America' as the Baby Boomer generation retires, leading to a rise in healthcare costs and alterations in housing demand. Low-income countries, while currently with a younger population, are predicted to experience a similar boom in their elderly population by 2050, which will impact the standard of living. The demands for healthcare workers increase with the elderly population, and the changing demographic age pyramids make it difficult to meet this need.