Home Industry Healthcare Insights: Why longevity should be a global government priority Governments must act as catalysts, fostering innovation ecosystems and adopting bold, forward-thinking policies to position themselves as leaders in this emerging field by Dmitry Kaminskiy January 10, 2025 Image: Supplied Longevity has become a 21st-century imperative. Today, few challenges rival the urgency and complexity of ageing populations. The pursuit of extending healthspan through advancements in biomedicine, technology, and progressive governance, is no longer a niche scientific endeavour but a societal necessity. As nations grapple with rising healthcare costs, shrinking workforces, and the socioeconomic impacts of ageing, the need to prioritise longevity on a global scale becomes increasingly clear. Governments that integrate longevity into their national strategies will be able to address these challenges while unlocking unprecedented opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and societal wellbeing. The ageing crisis: A global challenge The demographic transformation of the world’s population is unmistakable. In many developed nations, ageing populations now outnumber younger generations, creating an imbalance that threatens economic stability. Often referred to as the “Silver Tsunami”, this phenomenon is marked by the growing prevalence of age-related chronic diseases, escalating healthcare expenditures, and surging pension obligations. For countries like Japan, Germany, and Italy, the combination of low birth rates and increased life expectancy has resulted in a shrinking workforce and rising dependency ratios. Without proactive measures, these demographic shifts will strain public finances, limit economic growth, and exacerbate social inequities. But the ageing crisis is not an insurmountable burden — it is an opportunity. Longevity reframes ageing populations as catalysts for innovation rather than liabilities. With the advent of precision medicine, AI-driven health analytics, and groundbreaking biotechnologies such as gene therapies and senolytics, humanity is now capable of extending healthy, productive years. The “healthy longevity” vision emphasises prevention over treatment, enabling individuals to contribute to society well into their later years. Adopting an approach of this nature, governments would be able to reduce the economic strain of chronic diseases and transform ageing populations into valuable assets for their economies. Nations embracing longevity Leading nations are already demonstrating the potential of longevity-focused governance. Singapore has emerged as a model, investing in ageing research, health technologies, and community-based care programmes to extend the health span of its citizens. Switzerland, known for its progressive regulatory frameworks, has established itself as a hub for longevity BioTech innovation. Israel, with its flourishing tech ecosystem, is advancing precision health solutions that integrate AI and data-driven decision-making. In the process of addressing the challenges of ageing, these countries are positioning themselves as leaders in what is rapidly becoming the fifth industrial revolution — one centred on health, technology, and sustainability. The economics of longevity The economic implications of longevity are profound. Preventive healthcare and early interventions can significantly reduce the financial burden of managing chronic diseases, which account for the majority of healthcare expenditures in ageing societies. Furthermore, the rise of longevity-related industries — such as agetech, biotech, and longevity fintech — presents a lucrative opportunity for job creation and economic diversification. Governments that invest in these sectors today will reap the benefits of a longevity dividend, as healthier populations remain active in the workforce and contribute to the economy for longer. Consider Japan, often cited as a cautionary tale of super-ageing societies, yet also a beacon of adaptation. Facing one of the world’s oldest populations, Japan has embraced innovation to counteract demographic challenges. Robotics and AI are being deployed to fill labour gaps, while community initiatives encourage active lifestyles and preventive healthcare. Japan is turning ageing into a driver of technological advancement, demonstrating how societies can thrive despite demographic pressures. UAE: Pioneering longevity governance The UAE is another compelling example of how longevity can become a strategic priority. The Department of Health – Abu Dhabi has recently announced the licensing of the Institute for Healthier Living Abu Dhabi (IHLAD) as the first specialised healthy longevity medicine centre in the world. As part of its post-oil economic diversification, the UAE has embraced emerging industries such as biomedicine, AI, and longevity fintech. In cities like Dubai, investments in smart healthcare infrastructure and wellness hubs illustrate how longevity technologies are integrated into urban development. The UAE’s agility in regulatory reform and its commitment to public-private partnerships position it as a global leader in longevity governance. With its focus on innovation and strategic foresight, the UAE is uniquely equipped to host global longevity summits, set international standards, and attract investment in this burgeoning field. Technology and longevity shaping our future The convergence of advanced technologies further amplifies the potential of longevity initiatives. Biomedicine, AI, and blockchain are reshaping how health data is collected, analysed, and used. Predictive analytics enable real-time monitoring of population health, allowing governments to implement adaptive policies. Blockchain technology ensures transparency and security in healthcare systems, while longevity fintech innovations provide financial products tailored to extended lifespans, such as longevity insurance. Together, these advancements are building the foundation for integrated longevity ecosystems that optimise both health span and wealth span. The first true Longevity State will rise when technologies, policies, and ecosystems align to prioritise the extension of productive years. Such a state would not only lead in health innovation but also redefine governance for the modern era, using data-driven insights to address global challenges. From policy to practice Achieving the promise of longevity requires governments to take a proactive approach, and this involves developing comprehensive national longevity development plans that bring together stakeholders from healthcare, technology, and finance. Funding research and development in ageing biology, regenerative medicine, and AI is essential. Real-time health monitoring systems using biomarkers and predictive analytics can empower governments to make data-driven decisions, while international collaboration can standardise longevity metrics and promote equitable access to advancements. Longevity for healthier, equitable societies Longevity initiatives can reduce societal strain, improve quality of life, and foster intergenerational equity. Policies that promote preventive care, universal access to longevity technologies, and inclusive approaches to ageing will ensure that the benefits of extended lifespans are shared widely. Addressing ethical concerns, such as accessibility and overpopulation fears, requires careful policymaking that balances economic goals with societal needs. Governments must act as catalysts, fostering innovation ecosystems and adopting bold, forward-thinking policies to position themselves as leaders in this emerging field. The future of longevity is a collective endeavour, requiring collaboration across borders to ensure that the benefits of extended health spans are accessible to all. With the right investments, governance, and vision, longevity can redefine the 21st century as an era of health, prosperity, and equity. The time to prioritise longevity is now, for the benefit of current and future generations. Read: PureHealth’s Shaista Asif on why longevity is the key to the future of healthcare Tags Healthcare Insights longevity You might also like AI in access control: Enhancing security with intelligent analytics GCC countries: From tax havens to global business hubs The great GenAI trade-off: Balancing responsiveness with responsibility Cyberhealth: How to protect your company’s systems in 2025