Ageing Perth to press services
Perth's population aged over 65 could surpass a million people by 2050, exceeding the number of children and increasing pressure on health care and housing, a report reveals.
_Research released today by the Committee for Perth and the University of WA predicts the number of people aged over 65 in the Perth and Peel regions will continue to rise after its latest figures showed a 69 per cent increase in the past 20 years. _
The report also showed the number of people aged over 80 increased 127 per cent in the past 20 years.
Committee for Perth chief Marion Fulker said the trend would have serious implications on housing and care homes.
Ahead of the State and Federal Budgets, Mrs Fulker said it was important to address the needs of the ageing population. "The increase in dementia and other health issues will put more pressure on our health system," she said.
The committee's report found people aged over 65 were most prevalent in the western suburbs, including Mosman Park, Claremont, Nedlands, Peppermint Grove and Nedlands, and southern suburbs including Fremantle and Melville.
