When I was younger, aging seemed like a distant concern—something to think about later, when the time came. Now, as a member of the 50+ generation, it has become a daily reality. More than ever, I see how the world is changing around me, and one of the most pressing issues is the ever-rising cost of healthcare, driven in part by an aging population and the effects of climate change.
According to Allianz Research, by 2035, the number of Europeans over 60 will increase from the current 130 million to approximately 152 million. This alone will result in an 8.5% increase in per capita healthcare spending. However, when factoring in the effects of climate change, total costs could rise by as much as 12%. These numbers are alarming, but the daily reality is even more so.
Summers are getting hotter, heatwaves are lasting longer and becoming more intense. When I was younger, warm summers meant beaches and vacations; now, they mean carefully monitoring my water intake to avoid dehydration, as even slight dehydration can cause serious health issues. Extreme temperatures have a direct impact on cardiovascular diseases and respiratory conditions, placing an ever-growing burden on healthcare systems.
But it is not just our physical health that suffers. The indirect effects of climate change—such as increased stress, poor sleep quality, and mental strain—also contribute to rising healthcare costs. More and more elderly individuals are struggling with anxiety and depression, requiring additional medical care. Additionally, air pollution, exacerbated by industrial emissions and increasingly frequent wildfires, significantly raises the prevalence of chronic illnesses. Asthma, COPD, and other respiratory conditions are becoming more common among the older generation.
The question is, how can we adapt? How can we prepare for a future in which healthcare systems face mounting pressure? One thing is certain: prevention will play a crucial role. Health awareness, proper hydration, maintaining physical activity, and managing stress will be key to reducing risks. Adjusting our dietary habits—prioritizing local, seasonal products and avoiding artificial additives—can also contribute to preserving our health.
We cannot ignore the role of political and economic decision-making either. Healthcare and social support systems must adapt to these new challenges. Addressing the current situation is not enough; we need to think ahead to prevent excessive strain on future generations. The digitalization of healthcare and the implementation of new technologies, such as telemedicine and AI-based diagnostics, could help alleviate system overload and improve efficiency.
We, the 50+ generation, have been through a lot. We have witnessed the world change, adapted, and learned from our experiences. Now, we face yet another challenge, but our accumulated wisdom can help us navigate it with awareness and preparation. Our health is our most valuable asset, and it is up to us to protect it. The choices we make—both individually and as a society—will determine the quality of life we can secure for ourselves and the generations to come in an increasingly unpredictable world.