§ Mr. DunnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what proportion of the population was over the age of 65 years in 1961, 1970, 1980, and 1990; and if he will give estimates for the years 2000, 2010, 2020 and 2030.
§ Mr. DorrellEstimated and projected percentages of the population of England and Wales aged 65 and over are as follows:
Per cent. Mid-year estimate: 1961 11.9 1970 13.2 1980 15.1 11989 15.8 Projections (1989-based): 1990 15.8 2000 15.7 2010 16.1 2020 18.0 22029 20.0 1 Latest available estimate. 2 Last available projection.
§ Mr. DunnTo ask the Secretary of State for Health what is the Government's current policy towards the elderly; if he will comment on funding arrangements of organisations connected with the elderly; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DorrellThe Government's policy for elderly people comprises two main aims: the first is to provide services which enable people to maintain their independence for as long as possible and, after any period of hospital care, to return to their homes or to homely settings in the community as soon as possible; the second is to provide care and treatment appropriate to the 23W individual patient—this may involve community nursing at home, domiciliary social services, acute hospital care, rehabilitation or long-stay medical or nursing care.
It is for each health and local authority to determine the type and level of provision they provide in the light of local circumstances and priorities. In drawing up their community care plans we expect the statutory agencies to work together to ensure that they are compatible and comprehensive taking account of provision in the independent sector and of the individual needs and wishes of the elderly people themselves and their carers.
Under section 64 of the Health Services and Public Health Act 1968, the Department of Health funds a number of voluntary organisations who work with and for elderly people.