Institute eyes ageing

WELLINGTON - In 50 years, half the population of New Zealand will be more than 45 years old - and Victoria University has opened an institute to study the phenomenon.

Dr Judith Davey, a senior psychology lecturer, said the New Zealand Institute for Research on Ageing would investigate ageing's effect on the whole of society.

Thanks to improved medical technology and lifestyle, New Zealanders were now living longer.

Today, a 65-year-old woman will, on average, live a further 19 years and reach 84. Men of 65 can expect to live a further 151/2 years.

In 1955, 65-year-old females were expected to live a further 15.3 years, men 12.9 years.

Labour markets would go through huge changes, with "more flexibility and diversity in what people do, such as part-time work and contract employment."

- NZPA