A new study ranked UK cities for ageing populations, based on healthcare, transport, housing, community facilities, and life satisfaction.
A Scottish city has been named one of the best UK cities for older adults, according to new research(Image: Getty Images)
A Scottish city has been ranked as one of the best places in the United Kingdom for older adults to live, according to new research. A study by Confused.com life insurance assessed how well towns and cities are preparing for an ageing population.
A total of 17 factors that influence later-life quality were measured. These included access to healthcare, public transport, housing affordability, community facilities, and overall life satisfaction.
The findings placed Glasgow in fifth position across the UK, making it the only Scottish city to feature in the top 10. The city scored highly for happiness and life satisfaction, alongside a wide choice of shops, cafés, and strong transport links.
However, slightly lower levels of healthcare service availability and age-friendly community infrastructure kept it from finishing higher.
According to the analysis, Glasgow recorded 21.4 GP practices per 100,000 people, 19.5 Blue Badge parking spaces and a life satisfaction index score of 7.6. The average property price in the city was listed at £184,235, contributing to its total score of 55.1.
Brighton and Hove topped the national ranking, standing out as the most supportive environment for older residents. The coastal city scored particularly strongly for healthcare provision, dentists and care homes per 100,000 people.
Glasgow ranked fifth in the UK for growing old, praised for happiness, amenities and transport, but marked down for healthcare and community support.(Image: Getty Images)
It also ranked first for the number of Blue Badge spaces, while offering excellent access to train stations, bus routes and accessible toilets.
The research highlights the urgent need for cities to adapt as the UK population continues to grow older. Data shows that almost 19 per cent of residents were aged 65 or above in 2022, with projections suggesting this will rise to 27 per cent by 2072.
The number of people aged 90 and over has also reached record highs, increasing by 54 per cent over the past two decades.
This shift, according to the study, shows the importance of communities being equipped to support independence, health and wellbeing into later life.
Confused.com’s findings also stressed that everyday factors such as access to quality healthcare, affordable housing, transport connections and the simple convenience of shopping facilities can have a significant impact on quality of life in older age.
Tom Vaughan, life insurance expert at Confused.com, said: “As we plan for later in life, things like retirement homes, life insurance, and pension planning often top the list. But it’s just as important to think about the community we’ll be part of.
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“The UK’s ageing population means more of us will need to consider how well our cities and neighbourhoods can support us. Factors like healthcare access, public transport, and community amenities make a huge difference to our quality of life as we get older.
“Planning ahead, not just financially, but also in terms of where you live and what services are available to you, is key to your wellbeing and security. As well as savings or pensions, you should ensure your environment will help you stay independent, active, and connected.
“Taking steps to support your lifestyle later in life is important. Reviewing your life insurance or exploring later life protection can help safeguard your future, wherever you choose to live.”
The UK’s top 10 places for older people to live
- Brighton and Hove
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- Bournemouth
- Stoke-on-Trent
- Glasgow
- Plymouth
- Leeds
- Manchester
- Nottingham
- Bristol