Within 20 years half of the adult UK population will be over 50. One in four children born today will live beyond 100. These are dramatic shifts that have far-reaching consequences for us all, and our ageing population will change our society in many ways.

This discussion paper, and a series of associated public discussion events, are part of the first stage of a review of the Government’s strategy for meeting the challenges of our ageing society. The next step will be the publication of a more detailed set of ideas in Spring 2009. We want to discuss the issues to be addressed in the strategy and give you the opportunity to tell us what you think is most important for a fulfilling later life.