3.1% increase in people aged over 60

In statistics released by the National Statistics Office (NSO) to commemorate International Day of the Elderly increased life expectancy trends are expected to increase the total number of people over 60 to 32% of the population by 2050.

Total government expenditure on retirement pensions amounted to €338 million or 51% of total social security benefits, resulting in a total increase in government spending on retirement of 8%.

According to the 2008 Survey on Income and Living Conditions, people in this age bracket are at greater risk of living below the poverty line. 21% of over 59 year olds are at risk of poverty while the figure for younger counterparts stood at 13%. 70% of the elderly could not afford a one-week’s holiday and 10% could not afford a meal of meat, chicken or fish (or vegetarian equivalent) every other day. 40% said they could not afford unexpected financial expenses of over €450.

Average household expenditure for persons 65 and over was significantly lower than for other households at €12,284, while other households spent €21,856. Expenditure patterns also distinguished the two groups with a higher percentage spent of food and medical items in the older age bracket, and a smaller percentage spent on transport, clothing and footwear, recreation and culture.

64 people over the age of 59 got married in 2009 – 45 men and 19 women – 40% of men and 32% of women for the first time.

During the academic year of 2008-2009 more than 50 people aged 60 and over attended a University of Malta course, representing a 24% increase over 2008.