Cumbria's population is getting steadily older with almost four in ten residents expected to be aged 60 years and older by 2029.
Long term population projections published today by Cumbria County Council show that fastet growing age group in the county over the next 25-years will be people aged 60-74 who are set to make up 22 per cent of the population in 2029, compared to just 16 per cent in 2004 .
The figures, which are based on research by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) also show that the proportion of Cumbrians aged 75 years and older is predicted to rise from 9 per cent in 2004 to 15 per cent in 2029.
As things currently stand, 27 per cent of householders in the county are pensioners compared with a national average of 24 per cent.
Cumbria's attraction as a retirement destination means this gap is expected to increase significantly over the coming years with all the implications that will mean for on social care services.
Last year, the county council announced it was commissioning a series of local working groups to look at how support for older people can be provided in future years.
More attention is expected to be focused on supporting people in their own homes, modern residential facilities and extra-care housing schemes.
Extra-care combines the advantages of sheltered housing with the round-the-clock care provided in residential homes. People still have their own front door and are supported by an on-site care and support team.
Research shows that given the choice, older people prefer to live independently for as long as possible and alongside extra-care housing, ways to provide more specialist support to help people live in their own homes for longer is also being examined.
None of the council's existing residential homes meet national minimum standards or the expectations of today's older people and will need to be upgraded or replaced to meet future needs. Most residents currently have to share bathrooms and staff are often unable to operate lifting hoists and manoeuvre wheelchairs due to cramped bedrooms and narrow corridors.
The working groups which include representatives from Age Concern, the health service and social care, are expected to report back before the end of the year with suggestions on how more choice and independence can be provided for older people in Cumbria.
ENDS
Media enquiries to Mark Graham, Media Officer on 01228-606337