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Understanding the importance of health, social care, and wellbeing in modern society

Rising chronic illnesses demand expert care. Learn how Malta’s degree addresses this issue.

Europe’s population is getting older at an alarming rate. More people over 65 mean more people who require care, including hospital beds and home help. Fewer babies are being born, while people are living longer than ever before. 

While that is good news for birthdays, but it puts pressure on health care and social services. By 2050, one in three Europeans will be over the age of 60. People need more support as they age, which means more hands-on deck – nurses, carers, social workers, mental health professionals and maybe, you, too. 

But it is not just about age. Chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart problems and breathing difficulties, are on the rise. They have rise by 40% in the last two decades. 

The culprits? 

Sedentary lifestyles, processed foods, pollution, and sometimes just plain bad luck. Often, these conditions persist for the rest of one's life, and ongoing treatment is required. Hospitals need a constant influx of skilled professionals to meet demand. 

So, what does the big picture look like? 

Europe is facing a perfect storm: more people needing care, fewer young people available to provide that care and a healthcare system stretched to its limits. A BSc health and social care degree is at the heart of this shift, in which you can learn to impact lives. 

In this article, we will examine the changing demographics of Europe, the skills required to implement change, and the impact of education on the future of healthcare. 

Europe’s aging population: a call for health and social care

Europe’s demographic landscape is shifting dramatically. By 2050, nearly 30% of the European Union's (EU’s) population will be over 65, up from 20% in 2019 (Eurostat).  In Germany, 30% of the population is already over the age of 60. On the other hand, Italy’s birth rates plummeted to record lows in 2023. 

Fewer young people and longer lifespans mean fewer workers to support retirees.  The result is more pressure on healthcare systems, which require more professionals with a BSc health and social care degree. 

Why it hits hard: 

  • Increased demand: Geriatric care demand has tripled since 2010. 
  • Economic strain: Fewer workers mean less funding for public healthcare. 
  • Shortage of professionals: Long-term care facilities face a 25% staff shortage. 
  • Regional challenges: Rural areas face higher dependency ratios, like Evrytania, Greece, at 78.3% (World Economic Forum). 

Chronic diseases like diabetes and heart conditions are rising, driven by lifestyle factors. Sedentary lifestyles and pollution drive heart disease up by 33% in urban areas. These require ongoing care, making health and wellbeing courses in Malta vital for training specialists. Geriatric and long-term care are also in high demand, as many elderly prefer home-based support over institutions. 

Want to importance of health, social care, and wellbeing

The need for skilled professionals in health and social care 

Taking a pulse and filling out forms can be learnt. However, to thrive in health and social care, you need more skills. Communication is king. Empathy is non-negotiable. To be successful, you will need to understand people from all walks of life, often at their most vulnerable. Critical thinking helps when quick decisions are needed. Organisation keeps chaos at bay. And teamwork? It is the glue that holds it all together. 

Look around Europe and you will see demand for these skills everywhere. The World Health Organization predicts a 4.1 million worker shortage by 2030 (European Parliament). Nurses, social workers and geriatric specialists are among the most needed roles. The sector is crying out for new talent – people who can adapt, lead and make a difference. 

Programmes like the BSc (Hons) Health, Social Care and Wellbeing equip students with these skills, preparing them for Europe’s healthcare challenges. 

Wellbeing: more than just physical health 

Let us break the old-school thinking: health is not just about avoiding illness. It is about feeling good – physically, mentally and socially. Have you ever noticed how a good laugh with friends or feeling part of a community can raise your spirits? That is social wellbeing in action. It is as vital as any medicine. 

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as physical, mental, and social well-being. In modern society, mental health and social connections are as important as physical care. Loneliness can harm health as much as smoking, making social wellbeing a priority. 

Modern healthcare is shifting to an integrated approach. This means looking at the whole person, not just their symptoms. Mental health, social connections, and a sense of purpose all play a part in keeping people well. 

This is where technology steps in. Telemedicine lets patients chat with doctors from home.  Artificial intelligence (AI) diagnoses problems faster. These tools are changing the game, creating new roles and opportunities for those who know how to use them. 

How wellbeing reshapes care: 

  • Community mental health programmes reduce hospital readmissions by 70%. 
  • Telehealth reaches rural patients three times faster. 
  • AI predicts health risks before emergency happens. 

Technology is not replacing humans. It is freeing them to focus on empathy. A telehealth nurse spends less time logging symptoms and more time calming a scared patient. This shift demands professionals who blend technical expertise with emotional intelligence. Professionals trained in BSc health and social care degrees can leverage these tools to improve patient experiences. 

Why choose Malta? Why choose GBS? 

Malta is not just a sun-soaked island (although, let us be honest, that is certainly a good perk). It is a hub for international students, a crossroads of cultures and a place where English is widely spoken. GBS Malta stands out for its commitment to students’ success. The support is real, the teaching is top-notch, and the community is welcoming. 

Plus, the BSc (Hons) Health, Social Care and Wellbeing programme is tailored to today’s employers’ needs. You will graduate with not just a degree, but the skills and confidence to make a real impact – wherever your career takes you. 

GBS Malta’s BSc (Hons) Health, Social Care and Wellbeing 

So, where do you fit in? If you are eyeing a career in this sector, you need more than just classroom knowledge. GBS Malta’s BSc (Hons) Health, Social Care and Wellbeing programme is built for the real world. It is not just theory – it is practical, hands-on, and designed to get you job-ready. 

What is in the mix? You will dive into biological, psychological and social factors that shape health. You will explore equality, social justice, and safeguarding – crucial topics in today’s diverse societies. Healthy ageing and mental health? Covered.  As the curriculum is shaped by evidence-based research, you will learn what works and why it works. 

But it does not stop there. The programme hones your critical thinking, research and communication skills. You will learn to lead, manage, and adapt – skills that employers highly value. Whether you want to work in a hospital, a care home, or out in the community, you will be ready to hit the ground running. 

Careers that matter 

Let us discuss where this can take you. Graduates of the BSc health and social care at GBS Malta have a world of options. You could become a nurse, a healthcare assistant, a social worker, or a mental health advocate. Maybe you will lead a team, manage a care facility, or shape policy at a national level. 

The sector is not just growing – it is evolving. New roles are emerging all the time, especially as technology changes how care is delivered. If you are adaptable, curious, and driven to help others, there is a place for you. 

Your next move: Fix the system 

Europe needs passionate, skilled health and social care professionals. The challenges are big, but so are the opportunities. If you want a career that matters – a career where you can change lives – this is your moment. 

GBS Malta’s BSc (Hons) Health, Social Care and Wellbeing programme is your ticket in. It is practical, respected and designed for the future. 

The need for skilled health, social care and wellbeing professionals has never been greater. 

So, are you ready to be that professional? 

The world waits. 

Apply now. 

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