A Wake-Up Call for Australia's Aging Population: Drowning Deaths on the Rise
The recent surge in drowning incidents among older Australians is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that come with age.
Published on February 24, 2026, a new report by Royal Life Saving Australia has revealed a shocking 55% spike in drowning deaths among individuals aged 65 and above. Despite representing only 16% of the national population, older Australians now account for a staggering 26% of all drowning fatalities.
The research, released today, paints a concerning picture of the risks faced by our aging population. With 736 older adults losing their lives to drowning over the past decade, and a record-breaking 115 deaths in the 2024/25 period alone, it's time to address this growing issue head-on.
But here's where it gets controversial... Dr. Justin Scarr, CEO of Royal Life Saving Australia, believes that while these statistics are alarming, they also highlight the positive aspects of an active and independent older generation. "Today's older Australians are embracing a healthier and more adventurous lifestyle, which is fantastic for their overall well-being. However, it's crucial that we recognize and manage the unique risks associated with aging," he explains.
And this is the part most people miss... The report sheds light on the distinct patterns of drowning incidents across different age groups. For instance, individuals aged 65-74 are the most active cohort, often traveling to beaches and waterways for swimming and boating. As age advances, the risk profile shifts, with unintentional falls becoming a leading cause of drowning, especially among those aged 85 and above.
Key findings from the report include:
- 736 drowning deaths among individuals aged 65+ over the past 10 years
- A record-breaking 115 deaths in 2024/25
- 57% of victims had a pre-existing medical condition, with 75% of those being cardiovascular-related
- 54% of deaths occurred among individuals aged 65-74 years
- The most common locations for drowning incidents were beaches (24%) and rivers/creeks (22%)
- A significant 25% of incidents occurred within a 5km radius of the individual's home, with another 26% happening on their residential property
- Leading activities prior to drowning were swimming and boating, followed by unintentional falls into water
The report further emphasizes the need for tailored prevention strategies. As the population ages, it's crucial to adapt our approach to water safety. "Drowning risk increases with age due to various factors, including medical conditions, reduced mobility, and the higher likelihood of falls. We must evolve our strategies to address these changing circumstances," Dr. Scarr emphasizes.
To tackle this issue effectively, Royal Life Saving Australia has identified three key areas of focus:
- Supporting Healthy Ageing Agenda: Integrating water safety into falls prevention initiatives and broader healthy aging programs can help older adults stay active and engaged while minimizing risks.
- Lifelong Aquatic Engagement: Encouraging older Australians to continue enjoying aquatic activities while promoting self-awareness and an understanding of their changing capabilities is essential.
- Managing Medical Conditions: Promoting regular health check-ups, raising awareness about medication side effects, and ensuring safe management of cardiovascular and other conditions when engaging in water-related activities can significantly reduce the risk of drowning.
"Aquatic activities offer immense physical and social benefits, and we want to ensure that older adults can continue enjoying these benefits safely," Dr. Scarr adds.
To achieve the targets set by the Australian Water Safety Strategy 2030 and reduce drowning incidents among older Australians, Royal Life Saving Australia is calling on local councils and aquatic facilities to take action. By offering support and resources to refresh swimming skills and water safety knowledge, we can empower older adults to make informed choices and stay safe in and around water.
So, what do you think? Is it time to prioritize water safety education for our aging population? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below. Let's spark a conversation and work together to prevent these tragic incidents.
