Europeans over 65 will outnumber those under 15 next year

The World Health Organisation's report said that the covid-19 pandemic exposed the vulnerability of older adults and drew attention to existing gaps in policies, systems and services. File picture

The number of people over 65 will overtake those under 15 in Europe next year, according to projections from the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The shift will bring "new social, economic and health challenges" in order to make the best of an ageing population, it said.