Debate of the age

A conference, entitled “The debate of the age”, has been organised by Age Concern to coincide with the end of the current millennium and is aimed at highlighting the future of our ageing society. Many aspects including health, housing, public attitudes to the aged, and the labour market/employment prospects for older people, will be highlighted. Statistics on the ageing population indicate that there were 9.6 million people over the age of 65 in 1996 and there are estimated to be 12 million by 2021 and 14.6 million by 2061. In contrast, there will be a steady decline in the number of young people (under 16) from 12 million in 1996 to slightly over 10 million in 2061. Life expectancy is projected to rise from a mean of 74–78 for men and 80 for women by 2021 and 80 for men and 83 for women by 2061. These figures represent healthcare issues of epidemic proportions and will directly affect the practice of ophthalmology. The debate of the age was launched in 1998 with three aims: to raise awareness about the ageing society, to provide a forum for all interested individuals to consider the implications of ageing on society, and to influence public policy in matters relating to the demographics of ageing. The five core themes of the debate are Health and care, Paying for age, the Built environment, Values and attitudes, and Work and lifestyle. A series of conferences has already taken place and the …