East Devon Case Study fact file
The UK has an ageing population with roughly 12 million people aged over 65, that is 18% of
the population. People are living longer as there is much better health care which extends
life expectancy. People are also getting married later and therefore having less children as
well.
East Devon has the second highest concentration of over 50’s in England. It is a costal county
with beautiful countryside. It is a world heritage site that protects its natural beauty.
Problems of an ageing population
This results in there being areas in the UK that have high percentage of older people
however, due to these places usually having more expensive property making it unattractive
for young people.
Pensioners then also have a reduced income because there is a high number of elderly
people more pension funds are needed, which puts a strain on the economically active who
pay for this via national health contributions.
Old people also suffer more medical issues as well such as, eye operations and hip
replacements, therefore putting more pressure on the health services.
You also need transport for older people as they usually live in dispersed settlement patterns
and most of them don’t or can’t drive.
Old people often live on their own and do not see other people and therefore suffer from
social isolation.
Positives of an ageing population
The elderly do contribute £215 billion to the economy, this is known as the grey pound.
Grandparents are also able to look after grandchildren so parents can work saving millions of
pounds each year.
Old people often do voluntary work
The UK has an ageing population with roughly 12 million people aged over 65, that is 18% of
the population. People are living longer as there is much better health care which extends
life expectancy. People are also getting married later and therefore having less children as
well.
East Devon has the second highest concentration of over 50’s in England. It is a costal county
with beautiful countryside. It is a world heritage site that protects its natural beauty.
Problems of an ageing population
This results in there being areas in the UK that have high percentage of older people
however, due to these places usually having more expensive property making it unattractive
for young people.
Pensioners then also have a reduced income because there is a high number of elderly
people more pension funds are needed, which puts a strain on the economically active who
pay for this via national health contributions.
Old people also suffer more medical issues as well such as, eye operations and hip
replacements, therefore putting more pressure on the health services.
You also need transport for older people as they usually live in dispersed settlement patterns
and most of them don’t or can’t drive.
Old people often live on their own and do not see other people and therefore suffer from
social isolation.
Positives of an ageing population
The elderly do contribute £215 billion to the economy, this is known as the grey pound.
Grandparents are also able to look after grandchildren so parents can work saving millions of
pounds each year.
Old people often do voluntary work
