In July 2008, The Audit Commission published a National report on well-being in later life, which concludes that councils in England, particularly those with the fastest ageing populations are not ready to meet the needs of older residents who will make up more than a third of the population by 2009.

Amongst a range of recommendations the report advises that local councils should 'tackle the stereotypes and myths that prevent older people being fully engaged in the community and receiving appropriate services.'

The Audit Commission study, which the report is based on, focussed on people age 50 and over, specifically people living independently without a need for social care services.   235 people within 10 local authorities were interviewed, 4 older people mystery shopped 49 councils, and 175 older people took part in 15 focus groups.

The report can be accessed by visiting the Audit Commissions website at www.audit-commission.gov.uk/laterlife/

The web link above also provides interactive maps to show the projected increases in the 50 and over population across England up to 2029.