Researchers have discovered that slowing down the ageing process not only improves health, but also yields a major economic gain. A recent study calculated that one extra healthy year of life can be worth as much as 38 trillion dollars. As people live longer and healthier lives, healthcare costs fall significantly. This is because many age-related diseases, such as diabetes and heart problems, occur less frequently.
The study shows that extending the period in which people are healthy is more important than simply living longer. This is also referred to as compressing the period of morbidity at the end of life. At present, many people spend large parts of their lives with chronic conditions, which not only feels worse for themselves but also entails high healthcare costs. By investing in ageing research, we can minimise this period as much as possible.
Scientists are advocating for a different approach within healthcare. Instead of only treating diseases as they arise, more attention should be paid to preventing them. This can be achieved with new knowledge about how ageing works and how we can slow down the process. In this way, people can remain active and vital for longer, which not only improves their quality of life, but also reduces the burden on healthcare and society.
For people who want to age healthily, this means the future looks hopeful. More research can lead to new methods to stay healthy and fit, even at a later age. This contributes to a more active and enjoyable life, without being ill for years.
Source: Buck Institute
