10 ageing facts and figures
In this article we will describe top 10 facts and figures about ageing you need to know.
1. Ageing is an irreversible global trend
In 2021, 1 in 10 people worldwide were 65 or older, and this trend is expected to continue. This is due to the demographic transition, which is a trend towards smaller families and longer lives.
2. People are living longer
In the UK, life expectancy was 79 years for men and 83 years for women in 2021.
3. People start ageing before they’re born
DNA in cells is damaged over 100,000 times a day, which is more than once per second.
4. Women outlive men
In most parts of the world, women outlive men.
5. Cataracts are common
By age 80, more than half of Brits have either had cataract surgery or have a cataract.
6. Depression is common in older people
More than 1 in 10 older people experience depression, which can be caused by social isolation, poor physical health, and loss.
7. Falls are a significant risk
Older people have a higher risk of serious injury or death from falls, and the risk increases with age.
8. Vitamin D deficiency is common
It’s estimated that half of the adult population has a vitamin D deficiency, which can lead to cognitive impairment, cardiovascular disease, and bone problems.
9. Muscle weakness is common
Muscle weakness is a common result of aging, and one of the most common causes is sarcopenia, which is a decrease in the number and size of muscle fibers.
10. Smoking ages your lungs
Smoking can make the effects of aging worse, and can even increase the rate at which your lungs age. Quitting smoking can help, no matter how long you’ve been smoking or how old you are.
Other interesting facts about ageing
Frailty is a syndrome of decreased strength, physical activity and often cognitive impairment. It is part of ageing in some people.
Summary
We have described 10 facts and figures about ageing you need to know. We hope it has been helpful.
Other resource
Ageing well – 10 essential tips
Practical guide to healthy ageing (NHS England)
5 top tips to stay young (Just One Thing, Michael Mosley on BBC)
