12 HMS - An ageing population

What overall trend is occurring in Australia’s population aged 65 and over?

• It is decreasing as a proportion of the total population.

• It is steadily increasing in both absolute numbers and as a proportion.

• It remains constant with no significant change.

Which combination best explains why Australia’s ageing population is growing?

• Lower life expectancy and higher fertility rates

• Significant increases in life expectancy and decreases in fertility rates

• Migration of younger adults and stable fertility rates

Which definition of healthy ageing aligns with the World Health Organization (WHO) as presented?

• Maintaining physical fitness levels regardless of environment

• The process of developing and maintaining the functioning ability that enables wellbeing in older age

• Avoiding chronic disease through strict diet and exercise

Which option best describes an opportunity arising from Australia’s ageing population?

• Increased rates of youth unemployment due to older workers staying longer

• Extended work life allowing older adults to contribute expertise through paid roles or volunteering

• Reduced demand for mentoring in workplaces and communities

• Declining community engagement by older adults

Which challenge is directly linked to an ageing population’s impact on the health sector?

• Lower prevalence of chronic disease due to healthier lifestyles

• Increased healthcare demand, including pressures on hospitals and aged care facilities

• Decreased need for formal care as life expectancy rises

• Excess healthcare capacity in rural areas

Which policy-related pressure is a governmental challenge created by population ageing?

• Balancing immigration quotas

• Pension and retirement system pressures, including superannuation funding and retirement age debates

• Reducing defense spending

• Eliminating private savings options

Which initiative is a governmental response to an ageing workforce and care needs?

• Reducing training for aged care workers to save costs

• Incentives for people to remain in their homes and strategies to attract, retain and train aged care workers

• Closing residential aged care places

• Limiting dementia care options

Why is the availability of carers and volunteers projected to become a challenge in Australia?

• The number of older Australians is declining, reducing demand for home-based support

• Most carers are young and will increase in number

• Carers and volunteers themselves are ageing, and demand for home-based support is anticipated to grow faster than the supply of carers

• Technology will fully replace human carers

Which initiative best exemplifies preventative healthcare in supporting healthy ageing?

• Regular screenings, vaccinations, and health education to prevent illness

• Building new parks to encourage community gatherings

• Providing legal aid for elder abuse cases

• Retrofitting buses with priority seating for older adults