Forecasting Mortality Rates using the Weighted Hyndman-Ullah Method

The performance of three methods of mortality modelling and forecasting are compared. These include the basic Lee–Carter and two functional demographic models; the basic Hyndman–Ullah and the weighted Hyndman–Ullah. Using age-specific data from the Human Mortality Database of two developed countries, France and the UK (England&Wales), these methods are compared; through within-sample forecasting for the years 1999-2018. The weighted Hyndman–Ullah method is adjudged superior among the three methods through a comparison of mean forecast errors and qualitative inspection per the dataset of the selected countries. The weighted HU method is then used to conduct a 32–year ahead forecast to the year 2050