Over half of adults with learning difficulties do not live past 65, report says
A new report reveals that adults with learning disabilities in England die on average 19 years younger than the general population, with over half passing away before age 65. While avoidable deaths have declined, the report highlights ongoing concerns regarding healthcare equity and discrimination.
Why it matters
The data underscores significant systemic health inequalities and the need for improved medical care for vulnerable populations.
Image source, Rosalie Lander Image caption, Charlie Lander (centre) died aged 48 after swallowing a plastic glove
More than half of adults with learning disabilities in England die before the age of 65, an annual report into mortality suggests.
For the general population, that figure is 15%, according to the Learning Disabilities Mortality Review, which is known as the LeDeR and was commissioned by NHS England.
It looked at deaths recorded between 2021 and 2024 and found those with a learning disability died, on average, 19 years younger than the general population.
A government spokesperson said "significant action" was already underway to improve care, adding that ministers would "do all we can for people with a learning disability and autistic people."
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