For the first time in history, most people can expect to live into their 60s and beyond. In higher-income regions the proportion of people aged over 80 years is projected to more than double until 2100, reaching nearly 15 per cent of the population.
Europe’s population is ageing: in 2015, 18.9% of the EU-28’s population was aged 65 or over, and this percentage is expected to increase to 28.7% by 2080 — meaning that by then, 149,240,000 people will be aged 65+1,2. As a result of this demographic shift, healthcare professionals are observing and treating more diseases associated with age.
Understanding the role of nutrition in cognitive function as we age is important. Europe is negotiating the needs of an ageing population to enhance quality of life amongst this demographic. Healthcare professionals have an important part to play in providing patients with accurate research-based information, to help them follow a healthy diet and lifestyle.
