Case Study: UK's Ageing Population - Causes
Geography: Cambridge International GCSE (2027 Exams), topic 6.2.6
Causes and Distribution of the UK's Ageing Population
In 2016, 18% of the UK's population was over the age of 65. This proportion is increasing mainly because of decreasing birth rates and increasing life expectancies. But, the proportion of older people isn't constant throughout the UK.
Cause 1 - decreasing birth rates
- Couples are choosing to have fewer children.
- From 1964 to 2018, the average number of children per UK family decreased from 2.9 to 1.7.
- More people are choosing not to have children at all.
Cause 2 - increasing life expectancy
- Better medical care and increased awareness of the importance of living healthily are causing people to live longer.
- From 1964 to 2018, life expectancy in the UK increased from 72 to 81.
Spatial distribution of the elderly population
- Cities generally attract young migrants, young graduates, or people attending university.
- Rural and coastal areas usually have older populations.
- Surrey, Hampshire, and Devon have large retirement communities.
Test yourself on Case Study: UK's Ageing Population - Causes
What % of the UK's population is over 65?
In which of the following UK areas is the proportion of older people the highest?