We run the risk of squandering the rich potential of our ageing society

“These latest population projections from the ONS show that by 2037 nearly 1 in 4 people in the UK (24.3%) will be over the age of 65, compared to just over 1 in 6 (17.9%) today. The growth in the oldest old – those over 85 – will be even more dramatic, up from 2.4% today to 5% (1 in 20) by 2037. This surge in longevity should be celebrated and is testament to the huge strides we have made, particularly in medical care over the last half century. But to prepare for it, as a society we need to take measures such as continuing to improve our health and social care systems, helping older people stay in the workplace for longer and tackling the risks of loneliness and isolation in older age. Otherwise we run the risk of squandering the rich potential of our ageing society.”