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CHAPTER 1: BACKGROUND
1.1 BACKGROUND
Introduction
The population of Scotland has been fairly static at around 5 million for the last century. Census figures show that a slight decrease of just over 20,000 in the last 10 years and a lower birth rate has led to a 9% decrease in the number of children under 16. However, greater life expectancy has meant an increase in the number of people in older age ranges, with a 16% increase in the number of people over 75. A 13% increase in the number of 45-59 year olds indicates that this trend will continue in the coming decades. 1
Although Scotland is out of line with the rest of the UK where the population is steadily increasing, our increase in the number of older people is not unique. A combination of strategies to reduce birth rates, combined with successful public health measures means that in many countries throughout the world, populations are ageing.
Those born during the post-war baby boom are just now reaching pensionable age and the second wave of baby-boomers will reach this milestone in around 20 years time. The Scottish Executive has developed a Strategy to ensure that Scotland responds to these changing demographics.
The Strategy for a Scotland with an Ageing Population titled: "All Our Futures: Planning for a Scotland with an Ageing Population" (published March 2007), will focus on the key role that older people play in society and on making sure that our services and infrastructure are ready to deal with any different requirements brought about by our changing population.
Planning for an ageing population is a complex issue which encompasses almost every policy area. It is essential, therefore, that the Strategy be developed not only within the context of policy areas under the remit of the Scottish Executive, but also issues like pensions and discrimination legislation, which are the responsibility of the UK Government. Pensions and retirement age are, of course, highly topical at present and the Scottish Executive works closely with Westminster on reserved matters such as these.
One of the main objectives of The Scottish Executive's 'Age and Experience: Consultation on a Strategy for a Scotland with an Ageing Population' is to find ways to recognise the contribution made by older members of the community; whether in employment, as a volunteer or in a caring role. Older people contribute to Scottish society in numerous ways; as tax-payers and consumers making a significant contribution to the economy and as volunteers giving time and the benefit of their experience. The Scottish Executive is keen not only to recognise this contribution, but also find ways to maximise this important resource.
Strategic planning in areas such as health, transport and social inclusion is essential in order to identify and overcome any obstacles such as access to services, ageism, age discrimination or any other potential barriers to older people fulfilling their aspirations and continuing their contribution to society. The Scottish Executive is keen to find ways of improving:
Access to opportunities for older people: Identifying and eliminating barriers to opportunity for older people including issues such as age discrimination and neglect. The Scottish Parliament remit to encourage equal opportunities, through the Scotland Act 1998, includes the issue of age discrimination and the measures that can be put in place to combat this. In addition, the introduction, throughout the UK, of the Equalities Act and the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006 will provide protection from discrimination in employment and vocational training although, unlike race, religious and gender discrimination, it will not apply to the provision of goods and services.
Effective integrated services for older people: Along with health and care services, transport accessibility and usage, suitable housing needs have to be addressed. The Strategy will also encompass information services and technology and life-long learning.
Promoting and maintaining health and well-being: Looking at ways to promote good health through diet and physical activity but also planning the provision of services for those with mental health or long-term health problems. The effects of social networks and social inclusion can also contribute to our well-being and these will also be examined.
People living in accommodation and environments which continue to meet their needs as they age: Looking at provision of/ and access to shops and local services. Identifying any issues in surroundings such as pavements, parks and streets; and looking closer to home at in-home aids and assistance.
In addition to the consultation exercise, an external Advisory Group, chaired by the Minister for Communities, brought expert knowledge from a broad range of policy areas.
By 2024 over two-fifths of our population will be over the age of 50. Scotland needs to plan ahead to ensure us all the opportunity of "health, wealth and happiness" in our older years.
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