The group will explore how demographic change will affect the lives of older people, particularly on the region's economy, culture and society. The group will look at lifestyles and consumption, income and wealth, social connectedness and communication, health and wellbeing, and work, skills and education. The research group, with representatives from the Government Office for the North East, One NorthEast, North East Regional Information Partnership, Age Concern, North East Assembly and the Association of North East Councils, expect to report back to Years Ahead in June 2007.