France Sees Slowdown in Gains to Healthy Lifespan, Raising Questions for Pension Reform
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A recent report indicates that while French seniors are living longer and in better health, the rate of improvement has decelerated in recent years, a finding with significant implications for ongoing debates surrounding pension reform. The analysis, released Thursday, January 22, by the Directorate of Research, Studies, Evaluation and Statistics (Drees), a joint service of the health and social ministries and the finance ministry, underscores the complex relationship between longevity, health, and workforce participation.
Healthy Years on the Rise, But at a Slower Pace
In 2024, a 65-year-old woman in France can expect to live an additional 11.8 years without experiencing significant health-related limitations, while a man of the same age can anticipate 10.5 years of healthy life. This metric, which measures years lived without being restricted in daily activities due to illness, has improved by 1 year and 9 months for both genders since 2008. The calculations are based on data collected from a survey of 22,000 households.
However, the gains observed over nearly two decades are now showing signs of leveling off. According to the Drees report, the most substantial increases in disability-free life expectancy occurred between 2008 and 2019. Since then, the improvement has been marginal, with women aged 65 gaining just 4 months of healthy life and men of the same age gaining only 1 month.
Factors Contributing to Improved Healthspan
Several factors are believed to be driving the initial gains in healthy lifespan. A senior official stated that there is a noticeable “decrease in age from which chronic diseases linked to aging appear.” Furthermore, the management of these chronic conditions is becoming more effective, reducing their impact and shortening their duration. Finally, improvements in living environments – including specialized home equipment and increased social support – are helping individuals better manage their health challenges and maintain their independence.
France Remains a Leader in Europe
Despite the recent slowdown, France continues to outperform many of its European counterparts in terms of healthy lifespan. In 2023, French women aged 65 enjoyed a disability-free life expectancy 2 years and 5 months longer than the average across the 27 member states of the European Union. The gap was smaller for men, at 1 year and 4 months. France currently ranks third in the EU for disability-free life expectancy among women aged 65 and seventh for men in the same age group.
The findings from Drees are likely to fuel further discussion as policymakers grapple with the challenges of ensuring sustainable pension systems and encouraging longer working lives. The data highlights the importance of not only extending overall lifespan but also maximizing the number of years individuals can remain active and engaged in the workforce.
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