Ageing Workforce, Rising Demand

With the state pension age beginning its phased rise from 66 to 67 this spring, general practice teams will increasingly encounter patients affected by the health and financial consequences of working longer

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared in Health Foundation

While the increase in state pension age is partly driven by longer life expectancy, this trend sits alongside a concerning rise in work-limiting health conditions among people in their 50s and 60s. Compared with a decade ago, more patients in this age group are reporting chronic illness, musculoskeletal problems and mental health conditions that affect their ability to remain in employment. For practices, this means a growing cohort of older patients requiring ongoing clinical management, fit notes and support navigating work-related health issues.

Employment Gaps and Patient Vulnerability

Although employment rates have improved overall for those approaching retirement, they still decline significantly in the late 50s and early 60s. Crucially, there remains a stark disparity between those with and without work-limiting health conditions.

Patients who leave the workforce due to ill health are unlikely to return, increasing their risk of long-term financial hardship. This has knock-on effects for health outcomes, with poverty closely linked to worsening physical and mental health – factors that will inevitably increase demand on primary care services.

Increased Risk of Poverty and Health Inequalities

The extension of the state pension age means some patients may face a longer period without stable income if they are unable to work. Evidence from previous increases suggests this can lead to prolonged financial strain and poorer health outcomes.

This risk is particularly acute in more deprived communities, where patients already experience shorter life expectancy and higher levels of chronic illness. Without adequate support, these individuals may spend less time in retirement and more time managing ill health without financial security.

The Role of Prevention and Early Intervention

While short-term financial support measures may help mitigate immediate risks, a longer-term solution lies in improving population health and preventing people from leaving the workforce prematurely. Primary care has a critical role to play in this agenda. Proactive management of long-term conditions, early intervention in mental health and supporting healthier lifestyles can help patients remain in work for longer.

Practice managers should continue to prioritise integrated care approaches, including collaboration with social prescribers, physiotherapy services and local community organisations.

Looking Ahead: A Strategic Priority for Practices

As further increases in state pension age remain a possibility, there is a clear risk of widening health and income inequalities among older patients. For general practice, this reinforces the importance of a dual approach: supporting those already at risk of financial and health instability, while strengthening preventative care to reduce future demand.