DEVON’S ageing population could be storing up problems for the future, with the growing number of retired people potentially creating major issues.

Analysis of current and future demographics shows retirees will continue to rise as a proportion of the working-age population.

More older people could mean the county’s health services come under more stress, as health problems emerge as people age.

A report for Devon County Council shows in the next 20 years, the number of adults aged over 65 in Devon will increase by 76,000.  

The proportion of the population aged 75 and over will rise from 14 per cent now to 18 per cent.

Coupled with this is a prediction the birth-rate will also slow, meaning fewer working age adults per older person.

Currently there are 2.21 working-age adults to one older person, but this is predicted to drop to 1.7 to one.

This rise in retired people means an estimated 52 per cent increase in dementia by 2040 and a similar rise in hospital falls.

Other issues include a potential 38 per cent rise in long-term illnesses, 35 per cent rise in obesity and diabetes.

As such, the council is working to ensure Devon’s residents look after themselves better, and that health systems are better set up to support people.

Initiatives include the creation of a dementia strategy, and the upping of the council’s promotions to encourage people to stay physically, socially and mentally active.