By 2060, 34% of Greece’s population will be over 65; life expectancy is 81.1 years, but two-thirds of post-65 years involve chronic illness (Ministry of Health, presented by Melina Dermentzopoulou).
Key finding
According to Ministry of Health data presented at a regional seminar, Greece’s population is aging rapidly — by 2060 about 34% of Greeks will be over 65.
Life expectancy and health burden
Life expectancy in Greece is 81.1 years, but two-thirds of the years lived after age 65 are accompanied by at least one chronic disease (Ministry of Health). Most of these conditions are linked to behavioural risk factors such as smoking, poor diet and physical inactivity.
Policy response
Central Macedonia’s deputy regional councillor for Health and Social Solidarity stressed that healthy ageing must be prioritized and noted the World Health Organization is revising its Healthy Ageing strategy for 2026–2030. Local measures highlighted include making buildings and transport age-friendly, promoting exercise and healthy diets, funding primary-care services for older people, and tackling social isolation.
Role of professionals
Representatives of the Panhellenic Association of Physiotherapists said physiotherapists play a central role in preserving independence, mobility and quality of life for older adults.
