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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), females
Indicator code: E060204.F 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 for Females

Life expectancy at age 65 for females is a crucial demographic indicator that helps to understand the average number of years a woman is expected to live once she reaches the age of 65. This statistic is not just a measure of longevity but also a reflection of the health and social conditions affecting older women in various regions. By analyzing this data, policymakers and health professionals can better allocate resources, plan for future healthcare needs, and implement programs aimed at improving the quality of life for this segment of the population.

The Importance of Life Expectancy at Age 65 for Females

Understanding the life expectancy of females at age 65 is vital for several reasons. Firstly, it serves as an indicator of the effectiveness of public health policies and healthcare systems. A higher life expectancy at this age suggests successful management of chronic diseases and better overall health services. Secondly, this metric helps in planning for pensions and retirement benefits, ensuring that financial systems are sustainable as the population ages. Lastly, it raises awareness about the specific health needs and challenges faced by older women, guiding targeted health interventions and support services.

Strengths and Limitations of Life Expectancy at Age 65 for Females

While life expectancy at age 65 for females is a valuable indicator, it comes with its own set of strengths and limitations that need careful consideration.

Strengths

This metric is beneficial for longitudinal studies and comparisons across different populations or over time, providing insights into the health outcomes and longevity of older women. It helps governments and organizations in planning health services and social programs tailored to the needs of aging female populations. Additionally, it can guide research into the factors that contribute to longer, healthier lives for women post-retirement.

Limitations

However, the calculation of life expectancy at age 65 can sometimes overlook the quality of life and health disparities among older women. For instance, it does not differentiate between years lived in good health versus years spent in poor health or disability. Moreover, in regions with inadequate data collection on mortality rates, the estimates may not be reliable. The indicator also fails to capture the short-term fluctuations that might affect mortality rates, such as epidemics or significant health interventions.

In conclusion, while life expectancy at age 65 for females is an essential health indicator, it must be interpreted with an understanding of its broader context and limitations. By doing so, stakeholders can better utilize this data to enhance the health and well-being of older women worldwide.