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Data set notes

European Health for All database

Indicators: 565

Updated: 18 October 2024

Contact: Data and Digital Health Unit (DDH)

The following abbreviations are used in the indicator titles:

• SDR: age-standardized death rates (see HFA-DB user manual/Technical notes, page 13, for details)

• FTE: full-time equivalent

• PP: physical persons

• PPP$: purchasing power parities expressed in US $, an internationally comparable scale reflecting the relative domestic purchasing powers of currencies.

More information: http://www.euro.who.int/en/data-and-evidence/databases/european-health-for-all-database-hfa-db

Joint Monitoring Framework (JMF)

The joint monitoring framework (JMF) is used for reporting on indicators under three monitoring frameworks: the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Health 2020 and the Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) 2013–2020. The Regional Committee for Europe adopted the JMF in September 2018.

The majority of JMF indicators in the Gateway are linked to existing databases in the Gateway.

Background documents

EUR/RC68/10 Rev.1 Briefing note on the expert group deliberations and recommended common set of indicators for a joint monitoring framework
http://www.euro.who.int/en/about-us/governance/regional-committee-for-europe/past-sessions/68th-session/documentation/working-documents/eurrc6810-

EUR/RC68(1): Joint monitoring framework in the context of the roadmap to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, building on Health 2020, the European policy for health and well-being
http://www.euro.who.int/en/about-us/governance/regional-committee-for-europe/past-sessions/68th-session/documentation/resolutions/eurrc68d1

Developing a common set of indicators for the joint monitoring framework for SDGs, Health 2020 and the Global NCD Action Plan (2017)
http://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/health-policy/health-2020-the-european-policy-for-health-and-well-being/publications/2018/developing-a-common-set-of-indicators-for-the-joint-monitoring-framework-for-sdgs,-health-2020-and-the-global-ncd-action-plan-2017

Indicator notes

Life expectancy at age 65 (years)
Indicator code: E060204.T This indicator shares the definition with the parent indicator \"Life expectancy at birth (years)\".

Calculated by WHO/EURO for all countries which report detailed mortality data to WHO, using Wiesler's method. Age disaggregation of mortality data: 0, 1-4, 5-9,10-14, etc, 80-84, 85+.

Unfortunately, some countries are not able to ensure complete registration of all death cases and births. Therefore, life expectancy calculated using incomplete mortality data is higher than it actualy is. In some cases under-registration of deaths may reach 20% and this has to be kept in mind when making comparisons between countries. Particularly high levels of mortality under-registration are observed in countries which were affected by armed conflicts during 1990's, e.g. Georgia, Albania, Tajikistan and some other countries of former USSR and ex-Yugoslavia . In case of Georgia this problem is further aggravated by missing sufficiently accurate population estimates used as denominator._

Country/Area notes

Albania

Life expectancy is much higher than in reality due to the under-registration of death cases.
The sharp increase in 2001 is caused by the sharp change in population age structure based on the
2001 population census.

Armenia

January 2003: The 2002 population is based on the population census and is significantly lower than
estimates for previous years. This also effects the calculation of all rates and other indicators,
like life expectancy which show sharp changes between 2001 and 2002, purely because of the change in
the denominator. Indicators prior to 2002 will be recalculated if the retroactvely adjusted
population figures are received from the Central Statistical Office of Armenia.

Georgia

Data from 1995 onwards are estimates of the State Statisitcs Department made to adjust for
under-registration of deaths. They may be inconsistent with some other mortality-related indicators
which have been calculated using reported data on registered deaths.

Türkiye

Source: TURKSTAT (Turkish Statistical Institute).
Data are based on mid-year estimations of national population projections and indirect estimations.

General notes

Understanding Life Expectancy at Age 65

Life expectancy at age 65 is a crucial demographic indicator that helps to understand the average number of years a person aged 65 is expected to live, under current mortality conditions. This statistic is not just a measure of health or longevity but also a reflection of a country's healthcare system, lifestyle, and public health policies. It provides insights into the aging population's quality of life and the potential healthcare needs that might arise as more people live longer. This data is essential for policymakers, healthcare providers, and researchers to plan and allocate resources effectively, ensuring that the aging population can lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

The Importance of Life Expectancy at Age 65

Understanding life expectancy at age 65 is vital for several reasons. It helps governments and organizations design pensions and retirement plans that are sustainable as the demographic landscape changes. This indicator is also crucial for anticipating future healthcare needs, as a higher life expectancy at age 65 suggests a potential increase in the demand for medical services, long-term care, and geriatric support. Additionally, it can influence public policy decisions regarding aging populations, work, and retirement, ensuring that strategies are in place to support an increasing number of elderly citizens in maintaining a good quality of life.

Strengths and Limitations of Life Expectancy at Age 65

While life expectancy at age 65 is a valuable demographic tool, it comes with its strengths and limitations that need careful consideration.

Strengths

This indicator offers a standardized metric that facilitates international comparisons and historical trend analysis, providing a clear picture of health improvements or declines over time. It is instrumental in public health planning and resource allocation, helping to tailor healthcare systems to the needs of an aging population. Moreover, life expectancy at age 65 can serve as a benchmark for the effectiveness of national health policies and interventions, highlighting areas of success and those needing improvement.

Limitations

However, the calculation of life expectancy at age 65 also faces several challenges. The accuracy of this measure heavily depends on the quality of mortality data, which can vary significantly between countries and regions. In places with poor health reporting systems, life expectancy figures may be less reliable. Additionally, this indicator does not account for the quality of life or disparities in health conditions among the elderly, potentially masking significant issues like chronic diseases or disabilities that affect life satisfaction and functionality. It also does not reflect the impact of future policy changes or health interventions that could alter mortality trends.

Overall, while life expectancy at age 65 is a powerful tool for understanding and planning for the needs of the elderly, it must be used judiciously and in conjunction with other health and social indicators to paint a complete picture of aging in society.