Over 200 people gathered recently on a hot day at a shrine in downtown Tokyo. Many in the crowd were older adults. Some chewed gum and lifted dumbbells. The weight lifting was meant to increase their strength and balance. The elderly Japanese had gathered for an event to mark Respect for the Aged Day. The observance comes at a time when Japan’s population is aging. The number of people aged 65 and over has grown to 27.7 percent of the population. That information comes from government reports. The number of elderly Japanese who still work has also hit a new high. These numbers are evidence of efforts by the government and private businesses to keep the elderly at work. The government estimates, released on Monday, are a sign of the problems resulting from a declining birthrate.