By 2050, the number of older adults globally will more than double, reaching 1.6 billion. At the McKinsey Health Institute, we believe this is going to be one of the most profound demographic shifts in human history, and that it will present a significant opportunity.
Our recent global survey on healthy aging indicated that an overwhelming number of older adults have a clear desire to actively participate in society. And for those who do participate, they tend to have better health versus those who do not.
In China, for example, our survey shows that up to 49 percent of people are very eager to participate. And they’re looking for employment. Just imagine: If we focus on capacity, not age, we could unleash so much potential for older adults to contribute - as volunteers, as workers, as innovators, as advisors, or as community leaders.
I’m really hoping that we can work towards a world where every stakeholder feels motivated, and every stakeholder will be embracing the opportunity in healthy aging.