Cyprus’s Population is Aging

Recent EU data reveals that Cyprus is facing an aging population. As of 2023, people aged 65 and older made up 18% of the population, with women continuing to outlive men on the island.

The European Commission’s Health at a Glance: Europe report underscores a similar trend across Europe. The share of those aged 65 and over has grown from 16% in 2000 to 21% in 2023, with projections estimating this figure will rise to 29% by 2050.

Countries like Italy and Portugal have the highest proportions of elderly citizens, with seniors comprising 25% of their populations.

While women tend to live longer than men across all countries, including Cyprus, they are also more likely to suffer from chronic illnesses. On the island, 85% of individuals over the age of 65 are affected by at least one chronic health issue, and nearly 58% report activity limitations after reaching this age.

The aging healthcare workforce presents another challenge. In Cyprus, 40% of medical professionals are over the age of 55. This reflects a broader EU trend, where in 2022, 40% of doctors in nearly half the member states were aged 55 or older, raising concerns about a potential wave of retirements in the coming years.

Despite this, Cyprus maintains a strong doctor-to-population ratio, with 5.4 doctors per 1,000 residents, exceeding the EU average of 4.2 per 1,000.