| dataset_desc |
The Longevity Economy Principles: The Foundation f The Longevity Economy Principles: The Foundation for a Financially Resilient Future (World Economic Forum, 2024) is an in-depth report that outlines how societies, governments, and industries must adapt to the rapidly ageing global population. With life expectancy rising and birth rates falling, the report stresses that traditional economic, social, and retirement systems are no longer sufficient. It presents six core principles designed to guide global action toward a financially resilient, healthy, inclusive, and purpose-driven future for people living longer lives.
The document begins with a foreword explaining the urgent demographic transformation and the challenges it creates—such as inadequate retirement funding, widespread ageism, unequal health outcomes, and shrinking workforces. The executive summary highlights that although people are living longer, many cannot afford extended lifespans, and societies must drastically rethink education, work, financial systems, and social care.
It then presents six key Longevity Principles, each supported by case studies, data, and collaboration strategies:
Ensure financial resilience across key life events
The report notes that nearly 40% of individuals face financial instability after unexpected events such as illness, job loss, or caregiving duties. It explains how public-private collaboration, protective social policies, and innovative savings tools (like the UK Premium Bonds) can help prevent people from falling into poverty.
Longevity_Economy_Principles_20…
Provide universal access to impartial financial education
With only 33% of adults worldwide being financially literate, the report stresses how poor financial knowledge contributes to inequality and shorter life expectancy. It showcases successful national programmes from Singapore, New Zealand, and Denmark that integrate financial literacy into schools, workplaces, and communities.
Longevity_Economy_Principles_20…
Prioritize healthy ageing
Since one-fifth of life is now spent in poor health, the report argues that prevention, equitable healthcare access, and strong health systems are essential to achieving longer, healthier, more productive lives. It connects chronic disease, medical costs, and inequality to financial insecurity in older age.
Longevity_Economy_Principles_20…
Evolve jobs and lifelong skill-building for a multigenerational workforce
As birth rates decline and older workers become essential to economies, the report calls for redesigned jobs, flexible work models, anti-ageism efforts, and continuous upskilling. It stresses that by 2050, retirement ages would need to rise by 8.4 years to maintain current workforce ratios.
Longevity_Economy_Principles_20…
Design systems and environments for social connection and purpose
Social connection is identified as a pillar of healthy longevity. Loneliness increases healthcare costs, workplace absenteeism, and mortality risk. The report recommends community-based solutions, age-friendly environments, and intergenerational programmes to reduce isolation and increase purpose in older age.
Longevity_Economy_Principles_20…
Intentionally address longevity inequalities
Gender, race, socioeconomic status, geography, and caregiving burdens all shape who benefits from longevity. The report urges governments and organizations to design inclusive financial systems, caregiving support, and equitable access to health and career opportunities. It highlights examples from Germany, the UK, and AXA’s anti-ageism initiatives.
Longevity_Economy_Principles_20…
The report concludes by emphasizing that a successful longevity economy requires coordinated global action—uniting policymakers, businesses, communities, and financial institutions—to create systems where longer lives can be lived with financial security, health, dignity, and purpose.... |