The average age of new pensioners in Poland has dropped again, according to the latest ZUS data. In 2025, the average age at which incapacity for work was first certified reached 51.8 years (53.3 for men, 49.1 for women), down by about one month compared to the previous year. This continues a downward trend observed since 2022, when the average stood at 52.2 years.
The decline, though small, is part of a persistent pattern that has been visible for several years. Experts point to the growing role of mental disorders among the reasons for granting disability pensions. It is precisely in this category that the youngest pensioners are recorded, with the lowest average age for complete incapacity for work.
The phenomenon is raising concerns about the deteriorating health of the Polish workforce. According to the daily „Rzeczpospolita”, which reported on the ZUS data, the trend poses a growing challenge for both the labor market and the social insurance system.
A downward trend in the average age of pensioners
The data shows that in 2025, the average age of individuals for whom incapacity for work was first certified was 51.8 years. For women, the average was even lower, at 49.1 years. Compared to 2022, when the average was 52.2 years, the decrease amounts to roughly 0.4 years over three years.
The calculations are based on the first-time decisions issued by ZUS physicians and medical examiners. The drop is relatively slight but systematic, suggesting structural changes in the health profile of the working-age population.
Mental disorders as a growing cause of disability
One of the most notable findings is the rising share of mental and behavioral disorders among the causes of incapacity. The average age of people receiving a ruling of complete inability to work due to such conditions is significantly lower than for other medical reasons.
– The phenomenon may indicate a worsening health condition of Polish society and is becoming an increasing challenge for the labor market and the social security system – noted the article in „Rzeczpospolita”.
The newspaper adds that the trend is likely to continue unless preventive measures and better mental health care are introduced. For now, the average age of new pensioners is shrinking, and the system is under pressure to adapt.
Źródło: wnp.pl, Fot. Shutterstock
