Women are doing well in terms of health after age 65. For what ? Because they not only live longer, but also in better health than men, according to a recent study by Drees. This finding, based on the analysis of 2022 figures, reveals significant disparities between the sexes, and a new “disability-free” indicator supports these results.
A new indicator to measure health over the years
The Department of Research, Studies, Evaluation and Statistics (Drees) has enriched its analysis with a new indicator: “disability-free” life expectancy. This factor makes it possible to determine not only how long the French live, but also in what physical conditions. France thus ranks third in Europe for healthy life expectancy for women at age 65, and fourth for men.
The key figures: women in better health after 65
On average, a 65-year-old woman can expect to live another 11.8 years without disability, compared to 10.2 years for men. From birth, this trend is confirmed: women have a disability-free life expectancy of 65.3 years, surpassing the 63.8 years of men. This observation highlights female longevity accompanied by a higher quality of life, according to 2022 figures.
Life expectancy: a timid recovery after the pandemic
However, the study is nuanced: the COVID-19 pandemic has temporarily slowed progress in life expectancy. Although the figures are starting to rise again, the levels before 2019 have not yet been reached, specifies Drees. A gradual increase is nevertheless observed, which remains good news for both sexes.