Europe and the New Age of Longevity: Dementia as a Structural Challenge of the 21st Century

Europe is entering a demographic transformation unlike anything experienced before. The rapid ageing of the population is no longer a distant forecast—it is a present reality reshaping healthcare systems, social structures and economic priorities across the continent. Within this context, the latest report published on January 28, 2026 by Alzheimer Europe puts precise figures on one of the defining challenges of our time: dementia.

According to this updated analysis, 9,065,706 people will be living with dementia in the EU-27 by 2025. By 2050, that number is projected to reach 14,335,788, representing a 58% increase in just 25 years. Beyond the data itself, the report outlines a future that demands a profound rethinking of how Europe approaches ageing, care and long-term planning.

Living Longer, Rethinking Care

Life expectancy continues to rise across most European countries. People are living longer and, in many cases, healthier lives. Yet this progress also brings a growing prevalence of age-related conditions, with dementia emerging as one of the most complex public health challenges facing Europe.

The Alzheimer Europe report makes clear that this rise is not driven by declining health standards, but by the expansion of the population aged 80 and over. Longevity, in this sense, is a collective success—one that now requires equally ambitious and forward-looking responses.

Pressure on Health and Social Systems

The implications of these projections extend far beyond hospitals and clinics. Dementia places increasing demands on:

• National healthcare systems

• Social care and long-term support services

• Families and informal caregivers

• Labour markets and economic sustainability

Without strategic preparation, Europe risks facing shortages of specialised professionals, insufficient care infrastructure and mounting physical and emotional strain on caregivers—many of whom are themselves over 50.

Prevention, Technology and Anticipation

One of the clearest messages of the report is that the future is still open to influence. Research suggests that up to 40% of dementia cases could be delayed or avoided by addressing modifiable risk factors: physical activity, cardiovascular health, cognitive stimulation, nutrition, sleep quality and social connection.

This perspective aligns closely with the FIFTIERS philosophy of proactive longevity. Living longer is not merely about extending lifespan, but about preserving autonomy, clarity of mind and purpose throughout later decades of life.

Technology will play a central role in this evolution:

• Early detection supported by artificial intelligence

• Home-based monitoring systems

• Personalised therapeutic approaches

• Person-centred care models adapted to longer lives

Europe has the scientific expertise and innovative capacity to lead this transformation—provided that national strategies evolve in a coordinated and decisive manner.

Redefining Ageing in Europe

Rather than fuelling alarm, the data encourages a more mature reflection: population ageing is not a failure, but a triumph of modern society. The challenge lies in adapting institutions, policies and mindsets to this new demographic reality.

For the FIFTIERS generation—active, experienced and influential—this moment also represents an opportunity for leadership. Promoting preventive lifestyles, supporting innovation in care and demanding long-term public policies will be key to shaping a resilient future.

Looking Towards 2050: Decisions Made Today

The projections for 2050 are not inevitable outcomes; they reflect choices being made now. Investment in prevention, research, education and new models of intergenerational living will determine whether Europe faces this transition unprepared or emerges as a global reference in longevity strategy.

The Alzheimer Europe report stands as a clear signal: longevity is becoming the central strategic axis of the 21st century. Addressing it with intelligence, foresight and collective responsibility will define the next chapter of European society.