It doesn't take a huge imagination to realise the unexpected could happen, especially at that age. If you have had a reasonable career in a well paying job then it is irresponsible not to put something away for a rainy day.
The article didn't mention a bad medical problem, rather some low level issues.
I'm not sure using the lack of socialised health care as an excuse for not managing your finances is sensible. It's only a minority that need expensive health care before 65 but it seems it's the majority who aren't managing to live within their means.
