NEW stats show Dorset remains the destination of choice for retirees.

The figures from Dorset County Council reveal that 28 per cent of the population in its area are aged over 65, significantly higher than the UK average of 18 per cent.

And while the county's 'natural population' is in decline – that is there are more deaths than births – it is more than replenished by a high rate of migration from within the UK.

Annually there is a net increase of 3,400 people, in total 20,400 people moved into Dorset and 17,500 moved out.

Only around 500 migrants moved into the county council area from outside the country, figures show.

The greatest net migration gain, the council says, is those aged 60-69, and the greatest loss is among 15-24 year olds.

The number of people aged over 65 is expected to grow by 0.9 per cent, or 20,500 people, per year, almost a fifth of which will be aged over 85.

The report from the council chief executive's department lists a number of difficulties likely to arise from the ageing population.

"More family members will find themselves acting as informal carers," the report states.

"In 2011 the Census identified 49,300 unpaid carers in Dorset, an increase of 17 per cent since 2001.

"Demand for formal care workers will also grow – and it's already very difficult to recruit people, particularly in rural areas.

"Dorset has been working with councils across the South West to promote caring as a career under the banner 'Proud to Care'."

The council says it is encouraging people to plan ahead and think about their future needs via its 'Prepare to Live Better' campaign, so more people can live independently for longer.

"As older people live longer, feelings of loneliness and isolation can develop when they are supported to remain in their own homes," the report states.

"The availability of housing for younger people can also be reduced.

"The county council produces population projections going forwards 25 years to anticipate housing need and inform local plans, including demand for specialist provision for older people."

The figures also cover life expectancy, which is above the average for England across most of the county council area, at 81.2 years for men and 84.7 for women.

All districts are above the average except Weymouth and Portland, which is slightly below.