An ageing population
An ageing populationCumberland has an older age structure compared to regional and national data. In the 2021 Census, 23% of our residents were aged 65 years and over. Population growth is projected to be concentrated in the older age groups (those aged 65). To meet this growth in older households, the General Needs Housing Study recommends that 15-20% of new homes should be level access.
It is important to provide housing suitable for older persons to allow them access to a range of homes to suit their needs. This will have a positive effect on available housing stock, and improved health and well-being will lessen the impact of inappropriate housing on health and social care services.
The need and priorities for supported housing will be detailed in the Supported Housing strategy. However, it must be remembered that not all older persons will require supported accommodation. Many older people will be able to live independently in suitable general needs accommodation.
Table 11: change in population 2022 to 2039 by age group
| Age groups | 2022 | 2039 | Number change | % change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 to 19 | 57,538 | 51,747 | -5,791 | -10.1 |
| 20 to 39 | 57,931 | 54,945 | -2,987 | -5.2 |
| 40 to 54 | 51,103 | 48,361 | -2,742 | -5.4 |
| 55 to 64 | 42,199 | 33,174 | -9,025 | -21.4 |
| 65-74 | 34,340 | 38,840 | 4,501 | 13.1 |
| 75-84 | 22,765 | 29,766 | 7,000 | 30.8 |
| 85 and older | 8,623 | 13,663 | 5,040 | 58.4 |
| All ages | 274,499 | 270,496 | -4,003 | -1.5 |