The number of healthcare jobs around the world looks set to increase as the global population ages.

According to a new study by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the growth in older adults will lead to rise in spending on health and social services.

The Paris-based body forecasts that funding for long-term care for the senior age group will double or perhaps triple between now and 2050, with governments advised to ensure policies in this area are affordable and provide greater support for those affected.

Almost one in ten individuals are expected to be over 80 years of age in OECD nations in the next four decades, with a rate of 17 per cent predicted for Japan.

According to recent OECD data, the jobless rate in the region remained stable at 8.2 per cent during March 2011 compared with the previous month, in the wake of three periods of decline.

Unemployment also held within the euro area, the seven largest nations surveyed and the European Union, while falls were recorded in Canada, Germany, the US and the UK.

Posted by Lee Thrace