FQ 2 A GROWing and ageing population

Australia’s population is on the rise, reaching 23 million in April 2013. Australia’s population growth rate = 1.7% World population growth rate = 1.1% CAUSE = Net overseas migration Net migration has increased to 60% of current growth, an increase of 6% from 2012-2013. Population is ageing, 9% is aged over 70. Expected to increase to 13% by 2021 and to 20% in 2051

Healthy Ageing Healthy ageing refers to activities and behaviours which aim to reduce the risk of illness and disease and increase physical, emotional mental health during the ageing process. Concerned with the quality of life, not just the years of life, enjoyed by an individual. The government has encouraged people to plan for financial security and independence. The government provides the elderley with a wide variety and services. Encourage a productive workforce. Encourage older people to work as long as possible. Poor health and sickness shortens a person’s working life.

HeAlthy Ageing Governments promote good health. People who maintain and achieve good health are less likely to access health and aged care services later on in life. PROMOTION: Ambasador for ageing who is responsible for: Promoting positive and active ageing Encouuraging the contributions made by older people Promoting community government programs and initiatives to the public Assissting older people to access these programs National research priority ‘promoting and managing good health’ GOAL AND FOCUS: disease prevention, reducing illnessperiods and maintaining economic and social participation. INITIATIVES LEAD TO: better health outcomes for older Australians, therefor reducing economic burden on the government.

SNAPSHOT

Increased population living with chronic disease and disability Australia’s ageing population has led to an increase in the number of Australians with a chronic disease or disability. CHRONIC, NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES account for approximately 80% of the total burden of disease. AND is estimated to be responsible for ¾ of all deaths by 2020. Future levels of chronic disease could be reduced if younger people control risk factors for developing chronic disease. Eg. Smoking, obesity, excessive drinking and physical inactivity

Demand of Health services and workforce shortages TO BE CONTINUED…….