Longer lives are one of humanity’s greatest achievements, yet they are bringing fresh challenges for societies worldwide. A new study highlights how rising life expectancy is reshaping public health, with growing numbers of older adults living not only longer but often with chronic illnesses that strain healthcare and social systems. The findings were published in the journal Aging Clinical and Experimental Research.
Global life expectancy has risen from 46 years in 1950 to more than 70 years in 2023. In countries such as Japan, Italy and Switzerland, it exceeds 80 years. This progress reflects advances in medicine, sanitation, vaccination and nutrition. Yet the demographic shift means more people are living with multiple long-term conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, cancer and dementia. These conditions demand more complex and costly care, particularly in nations with already stretched healthcare services.
The number of people aged 60 and over is expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2050, representing more than one fifth of the global population. This rapid rise is happening in both wealthy and lower income countries, although poorer regions face the toughest challenges, with underfunded healthcare systems and limited resources to support older citizens.
Researchers stress that ageing should not be seen only as decline. Many older adults remain healthy, active and socially engaged, depending on lifestyle, genetics and access to care. The World Health Organization now defines “healthy ageing” as the ability to maintain physical, mental and social well-being into later life. This marks a shift away from focusing solely on disease and decline, and towards independence and quality of life.
The study highlights several areas that can help older people maintain independence. Proper nutrition, including adequate protein, calcium and vitamin D, is vital for preserving muscle and bone health. Diets rich in vegetables, whole grains and healthy fats, such as the Mediterranean diet, are linked with lower risks of chronic disease and even reduced rates of depression. Physical activity is equally important. Even moderate exercise like walking has been shown to reduce the risk of dementia, improve mood and support cardiovascular health.
Mental health is another area of concern. Functional decline, when illness or disability prevents older adults from managing daily tasks, can trigger persistent feelings of loss and isolation. This “chronic sorrow” often worsens when people become dependent on others for care. Supporting mental health through social connection, community involvement and early interventions is therefore essential.
The economic impact of ageing populations is also significant. Pension systems are under pressure as fewer workers support larger numbers of retirees. Healthcare costs are rising, particularly in the final years of life when serious illness is more common. However, researchers note that longevity itself is not the main driver of rising costs. Instead, the burden comes from multimorbidity, when individuals live with several chronic conditions at once.
The authors argue that governments must adopt integrated policies to support healthy ageing. Preventive care, early screening, and community-based services are all part of the solution. Equally important are environments that enable older adults to stay socially and economically active for as long as possible. Examples from Japan and Denmark show that coordinated health and housing strategies can reduce hospital admissions and combat social isolation.
Healthy ageing is not just a matter for older people. It is a challenge for entire societies, requiring long-term planning across health, economic and social systems. The message from the study is clear: extending life should go hand in hand with ensuring those extra years are lived well.