The Welfare of Elderly People

Abstract

During 1987, each day approximately 375 Australians turned 65 — the total for the year was 136,962. Approximately 81,500 people over 65 died in the same period, that is 223 a day. Thus our aged population increased by around 55,000 in the year or by 152 per day. When translated into goods and services and social facilities and supports, this warrants careful policy attention. Elderly people require a wide range of supports, especially income support, health services, housing support and social services. The public resources that are allocated are substantial, yet the range of incomes, access to services and housing situation of elderly people is probably wider than for any other population category. Our elderly population comprises a group spread across 30 or more years of life.