In September 2003, the website EurActiv on European affairs launched a discussion on "Healthy Ageing". They have published a "LinksDossier" on this subject, to which they are expecting contributions.
The questions are:
What are the most important public policy issues that affect the healthy ageing of Europeans?
What measures do you think are necessary to address the
challenges of Europe’s ageing population?
What in your view are the most important factors in promoting good health?
What role do you think patient groups / health NGOs / health care trade associations / the healthcare industry can play in responding to the challenges of an ageing population?
According to the 2002 UN World Population Prospects, the European continent is the only region in the world whose population is set to decrease in the years to come, with a growth rate of -0.28 per cent. The proportion of children is projected to decline from 17 per cent in 2000 to 15 per cent in 2050.
At the same time, by 2045-2050, people will live longer as life expectancy in Europe is expected to rise to 80.5 years from the currently estimated 73.2 years. There will be more elderly people as one-third of Europe’s population will be at least 60 years old by 2050.
Europe has to face enormous economic and social challenges due to its ageing population and shrinking workforce in the years to come. Differences in financing structures result in health inequalities among European countries, which diversity will further increase with upcoming EU enlargements.
