South Korea, entering a super-aged society in 2025, faces the pressing issue of polypharmacy among its elderly population. The term “polypharmacy” refers to the simultaneous use of multiple medications, often for chronic conditions, which has become a hidden contributor to frailty and health complications among older adults.
In 2025, 20% of the population is aged 65 and older, prompting a surge in medical expenses for the elderly, which now account for 44.1% of total national healthcare costs. Among these elderly, a staggering 53.9% of individuals with disabilities are aged 65 and above, signaling a worrying intersection between aging and disability.
The case of 86-year-old Kim Kyung-soon (pseudonym), who has been struggling with Parkinson’s disease, hypertension, and cognitive decline, highlights the risks of polypharmacy. Kim’s daily regimen of over 15 medications not only failed to alleviate her symptoms but worsened her health, leading to cognitive issues and increasing frailty. Her experience is far from isolated, as many elderly Koreans face similar struggles with medication side effects and the challenges of managing multiple prescriptions.
South Korea’s aging population and increasing disability rates underscore the need for healthcare reform. The nation’s elderly citizens, many suffering from multiple chronic diseases, are often caught in a cycle of hospitalization and care facilities. In fact, the aging disabled population has grown significantly, with 56.3% of newly registered disabled individuals in 2023 being over 65 years old.
A study from the Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study (KFACS) reveals that polypharmacy is a leading factor in frailty among older adults. The data shows that as the elderly population ages, polypharmacy accelerates functional decline, increasing the likelihood of frailty, dementia, and disability.
Moreover, rural residents face additional challenges. Despite common perceptions that rural living is healthier due to cleaner air, they often suffer from high chronic disease rates and limited access to healthcare, further exacerbating frailty.
In the fight against frailty, muscle strength stands out as a key defense. Individuals who have weaker grip strength or experience difficulty standing up and sitting down face greater health risks.
As South Korea’s elderly population continues to grow, the pressure on healthcare systems intensifies. The government and healthcare professionals must consider reforms to address polypharmacy and enhance elderly care. Experts suggest the development of specialized geriatric departments, primary care systems for seniors, and home healthcare initiatives to manage the unique challenges posed by an aging society.
Professor Yoon Jong-ryul, an honorary professor at Hallym University and former president of the Korean Geriatric Society, warns that without significant healthcare system changes, the country will struggle to manage the looming healthcare crisis as the elderly population expands.
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