Men in the North East can expect to die a year earlier than men in the south

Two elderly residents using zimmer frames Credit: PA

Life expectancy in old age in England has risen to its highest-ever level.

The length of time pensioners can expect to live once they reach milestones in old age has gone up, according to a new report from Public Health England.

However, the North East was the only region where male life expectancy went down. A spokesman for Public Health England said it wasn't clear what caused the regional differences.

Men:

  • Men who reach 65 can look forward to another 19 years, a rise of 0.3 years on 2013,

  • and can expect 12 years at 75

  • six years at 85

  • and three years at age 95.

Women:

  • Women who make it to 65 should anticipate a further 21 years, also a rise of 0.3 years on 2013

  • and then another 13 years at 75

  • seven years at 85

  • and three years at age 95.

Last year, a report showed that life expectancy at some older ages had dropped between 2011 and 2012 but the levels recovered in 2013.

The report also shows regional differences in life expectancy.

The life expectancy for men aged 65 in London, the South West, the South East and the East of England is more than a year longer than in the North East and North West.

But in all but one region of England, male and female life expectancy at age 65 increased between 2013 and 2014 and is higher in 2014 than in any other year presented.

The exception is the North East, where male life expectancy was highest in2013.

Professor John Newton, chief knowledge officer at Public Health England said it was "not yet clear" what caused the regional differences.