Future Proofing the Longevity Economy 2025

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Building towards a more inclusive and financially resilient future The solutions outlined in this paper provide a blueprint for how societies can embrace the longevity economy. The transition from a linear to a varied multistage life approach will not only help improve quality of life and financial security for individuals but also harness the potential of an increasingly older workforce to fuel innovation and economic growth. The following sections explore achievable strategies and best practices, offering a vision for the future in which financial pathways are designed to support individuals at every stage of their life – helping to ensure not just financial resilience but also fulfilling careers and meaningful participation in society throughout a person’s lifespan. In many ways, the “future” is already here, as there exists a myriad of innovative solutions that are ready to spread, scale and adapt to different national and sectoral contexts. The goal of this work is to develop a world in which purposeful contribution, meaningful connection and financial resilience are integrated throughout all life stages, creating new opportunities for engagement, economic growth and collective well-being. There exists a myriad of innovative solutions that are ready to spread, scale and adapt to different national and sectoral contexts. Ensure financial resilience through important life events Nearly 40% of people globally face financial instability after unplanned career interruptions, including breaks in their careers, illness or unexpected retirement.11 Public–private collaboration is crucial to support individuals navigating these challenges. Provide universal access to impartial financial education Only 33% of the global population is deemed financially literate,12 contributing to wealth inequalities that are in turn strongly correlated with life expectancy inequalities. Comprehensive, impartial financial education enables individuals to make informed financial decisions. Prioritize healthy ageing as foundational for the longevity economy Around one-fifth of life is expected to be lived with illness,13 with 80% of adults in developing countries concerned about the cost of medical expenses. Equitable access to health services can facilitate well- being for both the individual and broader society.14 Evolve jobs and lifelong skill-building for a multigenerational workforce Globally, up to 25% of individuals aged 55 and older wish to work in old age but face barriers in finding opportunities.15 Demographic shifts and technology innovations require jobs and skill-building to adapt and evolve, enabling individuals to extend their working years as desired. Design systems and environments for social connection and purpose Social connection is integral to healthy longevity. Socially isolated older adults have a higher risk of poor health and earlier death. Designing systems and environments for social connection can mitigate these impacts. Address longevity inequalities, including across gender, race and class The benefits of longevity are not distributed equitably. Promoting pay and pension equity, as well as support for informal carers, are some of the crucial steps that could deliver necessary change in this area.Summary of the six principles of the longevity economy TABLE 1 Future-Proofing the Longevity Economy: Innovations and Key Trends 77
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