Plan ahead for an ageing population, say experts

SCOTLAND is failing to prepare for the needs of its rapidly ageing population, experts have warned.

Lower rates of birth and net immigration are seeing the population age at a faster rate than in the rest of the UK, a report reveals. It means rises in the state pension age may have a disproportionate impact.

The Scottish Science Advisory Council says policies affecting economics, healthcare, housing and transport will be vital to maintaining ‘an active, healthy, and socially engaged ageing population’. Its findings are backed by the charity Age Scotland.

All Scottish council areas will see an increase in the proportion of over-75s between 2012 and 2022. West Lothian, Midlothian, Clackmannanshire, Orkney and Shetland will be most affected, with a percentage increase of more than 40 per cent. The average population age in Scotland is projected to rise to 45.2 by 2039, compared with 42.9 in the rest of the UK. However, life expectancy at birth will be 82.3 years for men and 85 for women – compared with 84.4 and 87.2 in England.

Age Scotland chief executive Brian Sloan said: ‘We’re concerned that Scotland is failing to plan ahead to future-proof its housing stock and workplaces, and tackle health inequalities.’

A Scottish Government spokesman said: ‘It is good news that people in Scotland are living longer but we must ensure our public services stand ready to meet the changing demographics.’