Seven underestimated facts about old age

Seniors are a diverse group whose average characteristics are often misunderstood. Describing this category of the population more accurately is all the more urgent given that it now spans almost four decades.

1. The median net worth in Switzerland is six times higher for retirees than for working people.

As figures from the Federal Statistical Office (FSO) show, the median net worth of households increases with age. Nevertheless, a significant proportion of seniors continue to face major economic difficulties. On the one hand, this is because the gap between the wealthiest and least wealthy is wider among retirees than among the working population. On the other hand, because wealth does not equate to income. Thus, in 2022, 300,000 older adults in Switzerland were living at or below the poverty line, according to the’Aging Observatory from Pro Senectute.

2. The majority of people aged 70 or older own their homes.

According to a study by Swiss Life, 55% of households with these profiles own their homes. This figure stands in stark contrast to younger generations, where only 20% of households headed by people around age 35 own their homes. In Switzerland, only about 40% of the population owns their own home, a relatively low figure by European standards. The fact that this percentage is significantly higher among older adults is largely due to a financial situation that is often more stable after retirement and the frequent completion of mortgage payments before retirement.

3. By 2050, one-quarter of the Swiss population will be over 65.

Switzerland’s aging population is a major trend. The number of seniors will rise from 1.64 million in 2020 to 2.67 million in 2050. Meanwhile, the number of people aged 80 and older will rise from 0.46 million to 1.11 million during this period.

4. Healthy life expectancy is increasing in Switzerland.

While it is well known that life expectancy has begun to rise again after declining during the COVID-19 pandemic, the fact that healthy life expectancy is also increasing is less often cited. It remains uncertain whether this upward trend will continue in the future, but some degree of stability could eventually set in.

5. People aged 65–79 report a high level of life satisfaction in Switzerland.

These people generally report being more satisfied with their lives than younger age groups. According to François Höpflinger, an expert on issues related to aging, retirement significantly reduces some of the stress associated with working life.

6. Older adults play an important political and social role.

With their growing demographic weight and high participation rates, older adults play a key role in political decision-making. And their engagement extends beyond the ballot box: many are actively involved in community organizations and volunteer work. Nearly a quarter of those aged 65–74 engage in organized volunteer work, and 40% in informal volunteer work, according to the 2024 Panorama of Swiss Society. Grandparents, in particular, play an important role in the care and upbringing of their grandchildren.

7. Old age does not necessarily mean irreversible mental decline.

The brains of older adults retain a high degree of plasticity, which allows them to acquire new skills. This is evident in their adoption of new technologies, which is steadily increasing. More and more older adults are using the Internet and social media to stay connected with loved ones or to pursue hobbies.

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