West Lothian
West Lothian is one of the 32 council areas of Scotland, bordering (in a clockwise direction) the City of Edinburgh council area, Scottish Borders, South Lanarkshire, North Lanarkshire and Falkirk. The modern council area was formed in 1975 when the historic county of West Lothian, also known as Linlithgowshire, was reshaped substantially as part of local government reforms; some areas that had formerly been part of Midlothian were added to a new West Lothian District within the Region of Lothian, whilst some areas in the north-west were transferred to the Falkirk District and areas in the north-east were transferred to the City of Edinburgh District. In 1996 West Lothian became a unitary authority area, using the same name and territory as in 1975.
Source: Wikipedia
The aging population of West Lothian is a significant concern, with the area experiencing a shift towards an older demographic.
As of 2024, the population is approximately 186,440, with a notable increase from 184,270 in 2023.
The 45 to 64 age group is the largest, with 52,040 individuals, while the 75 and over age group is the smallest, with 15,066 individuals.
The dependency ratio is currently around 56%, indicating a growing proportion of the population over the age of 65, which is expected to rise significantly in the coming years.
Projections suggest that the population could reach 200,000 by 2032, with a substantial increase in the retired population and those aged 75 or over.