The latest population estimates for 2009 and projections to 2033 are shown below as population pyramids (Figures 1a-b). These show the increasing aged profile of the Western Isles population with 2033 projection set to become a mushroom shaped profile with the largest proportion of the population in the 55+ age groups and the 5 year age bands under 16 becoming the lowest age groups. This is a typical profile of a population in demographic decline.
