The Office for National Statistics has shown that the population of the UK is ageing, and in 2014 proved to be at it's oldest.
"The population aged 65 and over has grown by 47% since mid-1974 to make up nearly 18% of the total population in mid-2014 while the number of people aged 75 and over has increased by 89% over the period and now makes up 8% of the population." - The Office for National Statistics.
Read the full report and charts here.
Improved health and lifestyle
Our healthcare is always advancing to treat conditions such as heart disease and cancer. There is also more information about the harms of smoking and help on offer to quit smoking. Although there are more women reaching 100 than men currently, due to more equal lifestyles today these numbers may start levelling out.
There have been vast improvements in the workplace, especially for men who may have once worked in dangerous an unsafe environments doing heavy labour. These are some of the factors that may have contributed to our ageing population in the UK.
Care concerns
The big question is: can we care for our ageing population? With the NHS already straining to cope and numerous residential care homes closing down, how will we care for the older people in the community?
We have a problem with loneliness in our older people in the UK. And many aren't receiving enough care when they need it. Going in and out of hospital can become a routine for many older people, before being moved into a care home. These issues need to be faced if we are going to be able to care for our ageing population.
At Telecare Choice we aim to provide care for those wishing to stay at home independently. With the number of people over 65 on the rise it's important we provide an affordable service available to help when needed.
If you know of someone who would benefit from this peace of mind, you can find out more about our life-saving personal alarms for elderly through our website or by giving us a call on 0800 635 7000.
