The fact is the population of the UK is growing in size and we are all living longer.
Ageing refers to both the ageing of the population and increasing numbers reaching older age and here are some fascinating age related statistics
Between 1985-2010 those aged over 65 in the UK increased by 20 per cent to 10.3 million.
In 2010 17% of the population was 65 or older.
Those aged over 85 also more than doubled to 1.4 million whist those aged under 16 fell to 19% ( a fall of 2%).
The ageing population will continue.
This population ageing will continue for the next few decades, by 2035 the number of people aged 85 and over is projected to be almost 3.5 million. 5 % of the total population.
Those aged 65 and over will account for 23 per cent of the total population in 2035 and those aged between 16 and 64 is due to fall.
This brings both brings benefits and challenges to society.
Up to date statistics on ageing are needed to inform policy makers and identify requirements for service delivery in key areas such as health and social care, the ageing of the workforce and pensions, housing and transport.
