July 2011 - Older people who are poor and isolated should be given help by specialist local teams, a report has revealed

The Centre for Social Justice (CSJ) has urged police officers, council officers, community leaders and older people's charities to help battle 'the epidemic of poverty and isolation in later life'.

Researchers studied UK and US projects to complete the report 'Age of Opportunity - Transforming the lives of older people in poverty', which was sponsored by charities Age UK and Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation.

Gavin Poole, executive director of CSJ, said: 'In this report we outline how government, communities, families and older people can work together to make later life an age of opportunity.'

Experts on care for older people have warned that poverty is an urgent problem that needs to be tackled with a range of reform ideas.

The study also warned that a growing number of older people living on their own are finding it difficult to meet repair and maintenance costs.

'The result is significant housing poverty among older homeowners, especially in the private sector,' it said.

Copyright Press Association 2011

March 2011 - Cuts leave UK less prepared for an ageing population

60% of population think spending cuts have left the country less prepared for an ageing population. More effective leadership needed on demographic changes demands Age UK report.

September 2008 - We can no longer ignore dementia

As a national strategy targets the devastating impact of dementia, Helen Mooney looks at how its proposals will affect nurses.

November 1999 - Best is yet to come

At the close of the 20th century, many older people have poor quality lives - characterised by ill health and limited opportunities. Any discussion about "them" is couched in terms of how "we" can cope with the "problem" of an ageing population, especially the growth in numbers. Gloomy forecasts of a "demographic timebomb" are commonplace.