The WHO European Region is facing a major demographic shift, with the number of older people growing rapidly. In 2024, for the first time in history, there will be more people aged 65 and older than children and adolescents under 16. The fastest-growing age group is those aged 80 and above, with women outnumbering men two to one in this group. By 2050, the number of people over 65 will double, and those over 80 will triple, with a greater number of older women than men. While an ageing population brings challenges, the real concern is the rising number of people living with chronic conditions and disabilities in later life. One in three adults lives with a chronic condition and rising to one in three older adults aged 65 and above with two or more conditions. This significantly strains health and care systems. Additionally, the health and care workforce are also ageing, with many workers nearing retirement and not enough younger professionals being trained to replace them. By 2050, the working-age population will be much smaller compared to the growing older population, which will put immense pressure on public welfare systems. To face these challenges, we need a fresh approach to healthy ageing, focused on prevention, better care models, and making sure people can stay healthy and active later in life.

The hearing will dive into how demographic shifts, particularly the ageing population, are reshaping health systems in the WHO European Region. We’ll explore the challenges these shifts create, such as the rise in chronic diseases, multi-morbidity, and the need for more trained health professionals. Keynote speakers will discuss the societal and economic changes needed to support healthy, productive ageing, and a panel of experts from across Europe will share their perspectives on tackling these issues. We’ll also hear from civil society, the health workforce, and academia to better understand the solutions needed. The session will include interactive discussions on practical strategies for promoting healthy ageing, such as improving health services, addressing health worker shortages, and fostering better community support systems. By the end of the hearing, we aim to have clear, actionable strategies to help build a more resilient and inclusive health system for an ageing population.

The main questions for this hearing will focus on how to address the challenges posed by an ageing population: How can we ensure our health systems can cope with the increasing number of older people living with chronic conditions? What strategies are needed to address workforce shortages and ensure health and care systems are prepared for the future? How can we ensure that everyone, regardless of age, economic status, or background, has access to the care and support they need to stay healthy as they age? What role should WHO, Member States, and other partners play in preparing for these demographic changes over the next five years?