C3 Societal Effects of an Ageing Population

Question 1

How is healthcare used by an ageing population?

Answer 1

• They access primary care, acute care and secondary care
• More likely to have accidents and be ill meaning they are in hospital more putting a strain on healthcare services (increase in taxes)

Question 2

How is social care used by an ageing population?

Answer 2

• May need a carer or a support worker to help them around the house

Question 3

How is financial support and entitlements used by an ageing population?

Answer 3

• over half of the UK welfare spending is on elderly pensions
• can also claim housing benefits and council tax reductions
  -free prescription
  -free tv license
  -concessionary travel fares
  -access to day centres

Question 4

What are the economic effects of an ageing population ?

Answer 4

• most emergency admissions to hospitals are elderly people
• home based services are usually accessed by the elderly
• population is living longer meaning they are accessing healthcare longer