The 8050 problem is a major issue in Japan, caused by its aging population, low fertility rate and long life expectancy. It has had far reaching effects on the economy, education system, healthcare and social welfare. Solutions to this issue involve both government initiatives and private sector solutions such as tax breaks for businesses employing elderly workers past retirement age, flexible working arrangements for parents and subsidies for couples who have children and stay married for longer periods of time. Recent developments have seen some positive progress made towards addressing this problem.