Authors: Aïda Solé-Auró, DemoSoc Research Group, Department of Political and Social Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF), Barcelona, Spain; Iñaki Permanyer, ICREA, Centre for Demographic Studies (CED), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB), Barcelona, Spain; and Marc Luy, Vienna Institute of Demography, Vienna, Austria, at the request of the Panel for the Future of Science and Technology (STOA), managed by the Scientific Foresight Unit, within the Directorate-General for Parliamentary Research Services (EPRS) of the Secretariat of the European Parliament.
With contributions from: Madelín Gómez-León, tenure-track Lecturer at Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF); Sahar Ahmed, PhD candidate, Centre for Demographic Studies (CED), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB); Rafael Serrano García, PhD Candidate, Universidad de Alicante (UA).
Summary
This study explores the intersection of health and socio-demographic factors shaping population ageing in the European Union, with a particular focus on groups at heightened risk of social inequality. Through a comprehensive review of existing literature, the research identifies critical knowledge gaps and outlines key social priorities affecting vulnerable populations, notably women and older adults. Using statistical methods and cross-national data, the study investigates the principal socio-demographic determinants of healthy ageing across the EU.
It compares trends in healthy life years both across countries and within specific population groups defined by gender and educational attainment. The findings highlight persistent social inequalities in healthy ageing and underscore the need for targeted interventions to promote health equity. By identifying the most at-risk groups—such as women with lower levels of education and older individuals—the study offers evidence to support more effective policymaking and resource allocation in healthcare and social services. It ultimately calls on governments to take urgent, informed action to address the societal and economic implications of an ageing population.