Ageing and society

Abstract

The 'graying' of Australia's population has been a regular topic of discussion in government, demographic, health and social service circles in recent years. It has been noted carefully because shifts in population structure, particularly increases in the so-called 'dependent' populations have serious implications for resource allocation in areas of income support and service provision. As we look to the future in South Australia, over the next 25 years South Australia's population will increase by 20 per cent; the population aged 65 and over by 40 per cent; the population aged 75 and over by 118 per cent and the over 85s by 147 per cent. Every day in Australia our elderly population increases by 104.