As life expectancy increases, the field of gender medicine is becoming ever more important, particularly in relation to longevity. This focus aims to consider and address the different needs of women, taking into account their specific physical, physiological, hormonal and biological aspects, as well as their specific symptoms and responses to medication. Although education, prevention, screening and treatment are essential for long life, additional measures are needed to ensure that women can live long and healthy lives.

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Key challenges to women's longevity

One of the biggest challenges women face is lengthening the menopause. Although people live around 20 years longer today than they did in 1950, menopause still occurs at the same age, meaning that women are exposed to the effects of menopause for longer. In the past, women's health has often been neglected in medical research and treatment, which, together with higher life expectancy, has meant that older women are more likely to suffer from chronic diseases than men.

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Economic and financial inequalities make women's longevity even more difficult. Across Europe, women earn significantly less than men — around 16% less on average, according to Eurostat. This inequality continues in old age, when women receive around 30% less pension than men due to their lower living income and more frequent parttime employment. These financial challenges make it difficult for women to bear the costs associated with aging, such as healthcare and long-term care.

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The risk of loneliness and isolation

Loneliness and isolation are major risks for aging women. As life expectancy increases, more and more women are over 90 years old, and a significant proportion of them suffer from dementia. Many older women live alone because they are widowed or divorced, with statistics showing that men are more likely than women to remarry after a divorce. Even women who live in long-term relationships often have to spend several years alone in their last years of life due to differences in the life expectancy of the sexes.

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Strategies for sustainable female longevity

In order to ensure the longevity of women, it is important that women and their families plan and organize for the long term. Economic independence is critical and women should not underestimate the value of maintaining employment even when childcare costs seem prohibitive. The loss of career advancement and contributions can have long-term financial consequences.

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Planning for the future primarily includes savings and investments. Women should consider pension funds, health insurance, and long-term care insurance as soon as financially possible. These measures can provide security and autonomy in later stages of life.

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Ultimately, tackling the unique challenges women face in living a long life requires a multi-faceted approach that includes healthcare, economic planning, and social support systems. Through proactive measures, women can improve their quality of life and ensure that their lives are not only long but also fulfilling and healthy.