Key points

Australia has an ageing population. By 2054, 21% of the population (8.4 million) will be aged 65 and over, compared to 15% (3.5 million) in 2014¹.
There is no reason ageing cannot be a positive process. This is despite widespread negative stereotypes about older people.
One common misconception is that the ageing population is a 'burden', with older people often portrayed as dependent recipients of government benefits, heavy users of health care services, and unemployed.
Older people make many important contributions to society. Many are informal carers and volunteers, and are the bedrock to many families.
The majority of older Australians live, and want to live, in their own homes.
Depression and ill health are not inevitable in older age. They can affect someone at any age and aren't necessarily more prevalent in older people.
Psychologists can help to improve the health and wellbeing of older people, especially when working in a team with carers and other health practitioners.
Depression and anxiety are much more common in older people living in residential aged care facilities than in the community, with more than half experiencing symptoms^2,3.

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