Romania: Senior population is growing fast, but feels undersupported in times of vulnerability, shows NN Research

27 November 2025 — Daniela GHETU
Romania faces a sharp demographic shift: in July 2025, for the first time, the population aged 65+ exceeded children under 14 by 35.4%. Yet, NN studies show seniors feel increasingly vulnerable and insufficiently supported as health and financial needs rise with age

Romanians aged 55+ see retirement as a moment when financial and health-related pressures increase. They lose employer-supported medical benefits just as health protection becomes a permanent concern. Cancer remains the leading fear, while demand rises for age-appropriate medical services and broader protection solutions.

At the same time, many worry about safeguarding their family’s financial stability in the event of death or ensuring they can leave something meaningful behind for children and grandchildren. Seniors want easy access to medical care, financial support, and tailored insurance solutions that reflect their changing needs.

Key findings from NN research:

  • 53% of respondents cite cancer as their top health fear — its incidence is three times higher among seniors compared to younger adults.
  • 73% say physical well-being and health are a constant concern.
  • 44% point to the high cost of medical treatment in Romanian hospitals as the biggest issue in the healthcare system.
  • 70% believe quality healthcare is financially out of reach for many Romanians.
Demographic projections confirm the trend: the 55+ population will continue to increase in the coming years. Romania mirrors the global pattern of rapid population aging, driving up demand for specialized protection and preventive services. The demographic aging index rose from 126.8 (January 2024) to 132.4 (January 2025) elderly people for every 100 young people.

Despite these needs, the Romanian insurance market still lacks comprehensive products dedicated to seniors — a critical and expanding consumer segment.

“Retirement should be a milestone - a celebration of a fulfilled professional journey - not a period marked by reduced income and the loss of employer-based health benefits,” said Kuldeep Kaushik, CEO of NN Life Insurance. “Many Romanians want a protection solution that ensures financial security, access to medical prevention services, and support for their families. It is time the market delivers dedicated solutions for this segment, and we are proud to introduce a new offering designed to make a real impact.”

Demand already exists: 56% of urban seniors say they would invest in a health insurance product designed to support both themselves and their families. NN clients whose policies reach maturity without a claim consider the payout a safety net for emergencies - and express strong interest in continued coverage at older ages. To address the realities of Romania’s shifting demographics and a consumer segment long overlooked by the insurance market, NN Life Insurance is launching NN Silver Care — a new product designed for individuals aged 55 to 75 who want ongoing protection and a financial safety net as they age, or who wish to secure support for their loved ones. The new insurance solution offers a unique combination of life protection, health coverage, and preventive care, tailored to the real needs of seniors at a stage of life when health and security become essential.

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