In calculating Dependency Ratio, the numerator is expressed as
**Core Concept**
The Dependency Ratio is a measure used to indicate the ratio of a number of dependents, aged zero to 14 and over the age of 65, to the total workforce, aged 15 to 64. It is an age population ratio of dependents to working-age population.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is the sum of the youth population, aged zero to 14, and the elderly population, aged 65 and above, as these are typically considered the dependent populations in a society. This is because they are either too young or too old to be part of the active workforce.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option only considers the youth population and excludes the elderly, making it an incomplete representation of dependents.
**Option B:** This option only considers the elderly population and excludes the youth, which is also an incomplete representation.
**Option C:** This option incorrectly includes the working-age population as dependents.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The Dependency Ratio is a crucial indicator for policymakers as it highlights the potential economic burden on the working population. A high dependency ratio may indicate a need for social and economic support structures.
**Correct Answer:** D. sum of the youth population, aged zero to 14, and the elderly population, aged 65 and above