Preparing the regions for the demands of an ageing population

As the population in provincial centres keeps ageing, and in some areas getting smaller, how will service levels be maintained, and the meet the needs of older people Demographic changes, including the rapid growth of Auckland, attracting more businesses and workers are impacting on the economic and social futures of the regions, and the demands on their infrastructure, and services. Some in the aged care sector expecting that close-knit communities of older people who are living and working longer could defy projections of the demise of some provincial areas - but admit there will be big challenges. Kathryn discusses the issue with demographer Paul Spoonley, Massey University Distinguished Professor and Pro-Vice Chancellor; Robyn Scott, the chief executive of Age Concern; and Simon Challies, the Ryman Healthcare chief executive.