Ageing Population- UK

Question 1

What are the problems created by an ageing population?

Answer 1

1. More money needed for:
   - residential homes/sheltered housing
   - health care: home visits + free prescriptions
   - social services: assistance at home
   - subsidies: TV licenses/ bus passes
2. Increase in long term housebound illnesses e.g. Parkinson’s
3. Increasing tax burden
4. Rising dependency ratio, in 1950 this was 15/100 in 2040 this is estimated to reach 40/100
5. Less money to provide facilities and services for younger age groups
6. Less investment by businesses in retirement areas so there may be the outmigration of young people- changing the demographic structure

Question 2

What are the problems that the elderly face?

Answer 2

1. Many have to live alone as their partners die ‘Granny Boom’
2. Most can’t afford the cost of residential housing, in some places this is >£2000 a month
3. Some have to sell their own homes and use their life savings
4. Long waits for hospital operations
5. Prejudice against the elderly despite them being fit enough to and willing to work
6. Those that live in rural areas and can’t drive can’t access services
7. SKI holidays

Question 3

What are the benefits of an ageing population?

Answer 3

1. Creates jobs e.g. Residential homes/building of retirement housing/ charity organisations, leisure facilities, maybe an increase in health workers
2. Potential target market e.g. M&S over 50s fashion
3. Could contribute to the economy but there are issues with that
4. The ‘Grey Lobby’
5. Many in good health and work beyond retirement age
6. Anti ageism laws help the elderly stay in employment although only a few companies e.g. B and Q currently do this