What is the Longevity Dividend?

Thanks in part to the breakthroughs in science and medicine led by AFAR-supported researchers, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people living longer. This presents a public health opportunity: to add life to our years, sustaining health for longer as we grow older.

If we can target the biology of aging, we can delay age-related disease. This can save health care costs and add life to our years: we call this the Longevity Dividend.

"The economic value of delayed aging is estimated to be $7.1 trillion over fifty years. The greater investment in research to delay aging appears to be a highly efficient way to forestall disease, extend a healthy life, and improve public health.”

From “Substantial Health And Economic Returns From Delayed Aging May Warrant A New Focus for Medical Research,” co-authored by AFAR board member S. Jay Olshansky, PhD, in Health Affairs

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AFAR board member S. Jay Olshansky, PhD lends expert perspective and analysis on the socioeconomic benefits of targeting the biology of aging.

AFAR Board Member S Jay Olshansky, PhD, on Geroscience from AFAR on Vimeo.

The Urgency of the Longevity Dividend

In this short clip, Dr. Olshansky explains how the progress made in aging research, coupled with the growing rate of older citizens, demands for solutions that can extend health as we age.

Aging, Health & Longevity in the 21st Century

In this extended lecture, Dr. Olshansky shares more insights on the health and public policy implications associated with aging, as part of the symposium "Aging, Health & Longevity in the 21st Century" at Wake Forest University.

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AFAR experts have authored significant studies and case statements on the public health impact and socioeconomic benefits of living healthier and living longer.

Substantial Health and Economic Returns From Delayed Aging May Warrant A New Focus For Medical Research

Dana P. Goodman, S. Jay Olshansky, et al

Commissioned by AFAR in Health Affairs

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How is a better world for older people a better world for everyone?

Live Longer, Live Well posits the impact of aging research, debunks myths on aging, and poses the economic and social benefits of extending health span.

This 4-minute clip was created by acclaimed data journalist David McCandless with the generous support of the Glenn Foundation for Medical Research.

Live Longer. Live Well. from AFAR on Vimeo.