There is no one commonly accepted definition of ‘old age’ or older people. An ageing population means that a higher number of people in County Durham are likely to be living with long term conditions and becoming frail in the years ahead, which is associated with disability and crisis admissions to hospital. This will increase demand on both health and social care services. However, interventions throughout a person’s lifetime, such as those promoting healthy living and decreasing social isolation, have significant potential to affect their health in old age.
Research shows that older people make a positive net contribution to the UK economy and as the number of people over 65 increases and people remain healthier for longer, opportunities to make a positive contribution through work or volunteering are growing.
Key Facts
Factsheets and key links
Selected indicators for Ageing Well
The following factsheets support this section:
- Dementia
- Life Expectancy
- Loneliness and Social Isolation in County Durham
- Premature and Preventable Mortality
- Residential/Nursing Care
Other links to data:
- Public Health England: Mental Health,Dementia and Neurology
- Public Health Profiles – Older People’s Health and Wellbeing by Local Authority