Poland's ageing surge outpaces geriatric and long‑term care capacity

Poland faces a demographic shift that could see half of its population over 60 by 2060. The health system is ill‑prepared: only 1.5 geriatric specialists per 100,000 residents work in the country, far fewer than the United Kingdom (3.3) or Sweden (4.0). In 2024 there were 559 geriatric doctors, a 16 % increase since 2019, yet the number of beds for elderly patients remains scarce, with just 74 geriatric units and 116 outpatient clinics reported for 2025. Access to specialised care varies widely by region.

The broader long‑term care situation is equally strained. OECD data indicate that 1.9 million Poles aged 65+ need assistance, of whom 430 000 require more than 40 hours of support each week. Around 90 % of intensive care is provided informally by family, friends or neighbours—significantly higher than the OECD average. This reliance falls mainly on women, who often curtail employment, resulting in lower incomes, reduced savings and higher mental‑health issues. In response, the Polish Sejm is drafting a law to define long‑term care and formalise support for informal caregivers.