Signal Over-85s projected to exceed one million by 2060

Summary

The report expects the population aged 85 and over to more than double by 2060, passing one million people. This figure is presented as one strand of double ageing, in which those over 65 already outnumber those under 20. The report links the growth of the very old to rising demand for care and more claims on long-term care. As the country ages, conditions such as dementia and osteoarthritis become more common and the number of people living with several chronic diseases rises sharply. The report concludes that shortages of care staff will become more acute and that working family members will have to carry a heavier load.