Experts Discuss Longevity Revolution and Challenges of Healthy Aging in Israel

Dr. Ira Sobel, an expert in longevity economics, explains the global shift from focusing solely on aging as decline to embracing the concept of longevity, which involves living longer with good health and quality of life. She notes that life expectancy has significantly increased worldwide, with some estimates suggesting newborns today could live to 90 or beyond. This shift requires societies to prepare for longer lives not just in years but in health, enabling extended work, leisure, and personal fulfillment.

Sobel highlights two main scientific approaches to longevity: one aims to extend lifespan, while the other emphasizes extending healthy lifespan. She points out that despite advances, there is no cure for aging, and regulatory bodies like the FDA have not classified aging as a disease. The goal is to improve healthspan so people can remain active and productive longer.

This trend has broad social and economic implications, including the need to rethink retirement and social security systems. As people live longer but may work less, there will be increased pressure on the workforce and pension systems. Sobel stresses the importance of raising the retirement age and investing in health from an early age to ensure that longer lives are also healthier. Without such measures, longer life expectancy could lead to more years lived in poor health, increasing societal burdens.

The discussion is part of a broader conversation on longevity and health featured in ynet's daily news podcast, which also covers related topics such as protein intake and nutrition.