Longevity: Which Countries’ Inhabitants Are Living The Longest?
Since we watched Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones on Netflix, it’s got us thinking at ExpatInsure: where do people live the longest?
It’s well-known that people are living longer and longer. In the USA, for instance, life expectancy has risen from 69.77 years in 1960 to 77.43 years in 2022, and this rise in life expectancy changes a lot of the ways we think about aging, retirement, and so on.
The World Economic Forum's report, Longevity Economy Principles: The Foundation for a Financially Resilient Future, highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by increasing global life expectancy. As populations age rapidly, particularly in developed nations, understanding longevity trends is crucial for shaping a financially resilient and healthy future.
Global Longevity Trends
Life expectancy has significantly increased worldwide, thanks to advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and living conditions. Some countries stand out for having exceptionally long-lived populations, driven by a combination of healthcare infrastructure, lifestyle, diet, and cultural factors.
Countries with the Highest Life Expectancy
Japan consistently tops global life expectancy rankings, with an average lifespan exceeding 84 years. The country's longevity is attributed to a healthy diet rich in fish, rice, vegetables, and tea, alongside a strong healthcare system and cultural practices that prioritize community and mental well-being.
With life expectancy hovering around 84 years, Switzerland benefits from a robust healthcare system, high living standards, and an emphasis on physical activity. The Swiss also enjoy access to clean environments and a diet that incorporates fresh, local produce.
Singapore's life expectancy is among the highest globally, thanks to its world-class healthcare system and focus on preventative care. Policies promoting healthy lifestyles and government initiatives to tackle chronic diseases contribute to its citizens living longer.
Spain's Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil, fresh vegetables, and fish, plays a key role in its high life expectancy. Social cohesion and strong family ties also contribute to mental health and longevity.
Like Spain, Italy's longevity is linked to the Mediterranean lifestyle, featuring a balanced diet and emphasis on social and familial relationships. Access to quality healthcare further enhances life expectancy, with averages approaching 84 years.
Iceland benefits from a pristine environment, low stress levels, and a diet rich in omega-3s from fish. A strong welfare system ensures access to healthcare, contributing to an average life expectancy of 83 years.
Australia and New Zealand
These countries combine high-quality healthcare with active, outdoor lifestyles. Both nations boast strong social support systems and low levels of pollution, resulting in average life expectancies around 83 years.
Nordic Countries (e.g. Sweden, Norway)
Nordic nations enjoy high life expectancies due to excellent public healthcare, welfare systems, and work-life balance. A culture of outdoor activities and healthy eating further supports longevity.
Factors Behind Longevity in These Countries
Countries with the longest-lived populations share common features that foster health and well-being across lifespans:
Accessible Healthcare: Universal or high-quality healthcare systems enable early detection and management of diseases.
Diet and Nutrition: Diets emphasizing whole, unprocessed foods contribute to reduced risks of chronic diseases. Learn more about diet's impact on longevity.
Active Lifestyles: Culturally ingrained physical activity, whether through work, recreation, or transport, keeps populations fit and healthy. See examples of active aging initiatives.
Social Support and Mental Health: Strong community ties and low social isolation are critical for mental and emotional well-being.
Environmental Quality: Clean air, water, and low pollution levels reduce risks associated with respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
The Importance of Financial and Social Preparedness
While people in these countries enjoy longer lives, extended lifespans require financial and social systems to adapt. Sustainable pension systems and accessible healthcare will be key to ensuring that aging populations can maintain their quality of life.
By examining these trends, individuals and policymakers can draw lessons to enhance longevity and quality of life in other regions.
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