CAMPAIGNERS have called for action to help meet the needs of Ayrshire’s ageing population.

A new report shows the number of people aged 65 and over living in the local area has increased over the last decade.

And concerns have been raised over the impact this demographic shift will have on the housing, health, financial and employment needs of older residents.

Adam Stachura, head of policy at Age Scotland, told The Chronicle: “The aftermath of the Covid pandemic, combined with the cost-of-living crisis, has brought into sharp focus the challenges facing older people today and in the future, really demonstrating that much more national action is needed.

“The Scottish Government should develop a joined-up strategy to support an ageing population as a matter of priority.

"Older people make a gigantic contribution to our society and economy but are desperately under appreciated.

“Our growing older population must be able to live independently and well for as long as possible.

"Access to high-quality health and social care, suitable housing, good pensions and flexible employment opportunities all play a key role in supporting them to do so.

“With delayed discharge from hospital reaching pre-pandemic levels and too many older people unable to access the care they need, health and social care services are already being stretched to breaking point.

"This is clearly not sustainable and better planning and provision of services is vital.

“There is no time to lose in preparing to meet the needs of an ageing population and ensuring everyone can live well in later life.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson said: “Older people in our society have much to offer and contribute and we are committed to supporting them through the actions in our Fairer Scotland for Older People Framework.

“We are also working with the Social Isolation and Loneliness Advisory Group in developing our five-year plan to tackle social isolation.

“We have committed to increasing social care funding by £800million by the end of the current parliament and the introduction of the National Care Service for Scotland will end the postcode lottery of care, ensuring consistently high standards across the country.”