• In 2022, 16% of Australians (about 4.2 million people) were aged 65 and over.

• This proportion is increasing steadily, driven by longer life expectancy and declining fertility rates.

• By 2050, it’s projected that 1 in 4 Australians will be aged 65 and over.

• Older Australians have higher rates of chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, arthritis and dementia.

• Many older adults live with two or more chronic conditions (multimorbidity), impacting independence and quality of life.

• Older Australians have higher rates of hospitalisation due to falls.

• Falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in this group.

• Higher demand for aged care services, hospitals, rehabilitation and home care.

• More emphasis on preventive care, chronic disease management and community-based services.

• Ageing population means a growing need for social support, accessible housing and age-friendly communities.

The World Health Organisation (WHO, 2020) defines healthy ageing as “the process of developing and maintaining the functional ability that enables wellbeing in older age”. 

Functionalability

• The ability of older adults to do what they value, such as maintaining independence, engaging in social and community life, and managing daily tasks.

Physical health

• Managing chronic conditions effectively.
• Preventing or minimising disease and injury (e.g. falls prevention, healthy eating, exercise).

Mental and cognitive health

• Supporting memory, mood and overall mental wellbeing.
• Preventing or delaying the onset of conditions like dementia.

Social wellbeing

• Staying connected with friends, family and community.
• Participating in meaningful activities, volunteering and community engagement.

Supportive environments

• Accessible housing, transport and public spaces.
• Age-friendly communities that support social inclusion and participation.

 Opportunities:

• Healthy ageing initiatives can enhance quality of life.
• Older Australians contribute significantly through volunteering, caregiving and community participation.
• Technology and digital health can improve access to care and support.

Challenges:

• Addressing the health needs of diverse ageing populations, especially in rural and remote areas.
• Managing the cost and sustainability of aged care and health systems.
• Promoting equity in access to aged care and health services for groups such as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities and people with disability.

The focus of current and future strategies is to create age-friendly communities and ensure that older Australians can live healthy, connected and fulfilling lives. These efforts not only reduce the burden on the healthcare system but also recognise the valuable contributions of older people in families, communities and society as a whole.

Current Strategies

Preventive health programs

• National campaigns to encourage physical activity (e.g. Find Your 30).
• Falls prevention programs in community and health settings.
• Healthy eating and nutrition initiatives tailored for older adults.

Chronic disease management

• Integrated care models for managing conditions like heart disease, diabetes and arthritis.
• Medication management services through pharmacists and GPs.

Social connection programs

• Community centres, Men’s Sheds and volunteering opportunities to reduce social isolation.
• Digital literacy programs to help older Australians use technology for connection.

Health system initiatives

• My Aged Care: Central point for accessing government-funded aged care services.
• Home Care Packages: Support older people to live independently at home.

Future Strategies

Digital health and telehealth

• Greater use of telehealth consultations for accessibility and convenience.
• Health monitoring technology (e.g. wearable devices to track activity, falls or vital signs).

Workforce development

• Training for health and aged care workers to meet the needs of a growing older population.
• Strategies to attract and retain skilled workers in aged care.

Research and innovation

• Research into dementia prevention, treatment and support.
• Trials of assistive technologies (e.g. smart home devices) to enhance independence.

Addressing inequalities

• Targeted strategies for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders, culturally and linguistically diverse communities and rural/remote older adults.
• Closing the gap in access to services and supports.

Government and non-government agencies must work together to build a holistic, equitable and responsive system that meets the complex and diverse needs of Australia’s ageing population. 

This approach will ensure older Australians remain healthy, safe, engaged and valued in society.

• Health and Aged Care System Capacity: e.g. Expand community-based care to support ageing in place (home care packages, respite care, rehabilitation services).
• Social Determinants and Inequalities: e.g. Provide culturally appropriate care and supports for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) older Australians.
• Promoting Healthy Ageing and Preventive Health: e.g. Support falls prevention and injury-reduction programs.
• Age-Friendly Communities and Infrastructure: e.g. Promote digital inclusion for older adults 

 (access to and training for using technology).

• Technology and Innovation: e.g. Invest in assistive technologies (e.g. smart home devices, mobility aids) to support functional ability.
• Policy, Funding and Coordination: e.g. Foster collaboration between government agencies and non-government organisations (NGOs) to share resources and avoid duplication.
• Support for Families and Carers: e.g. Recognise the crucial role of unpaid carers in supporting older Australians.