02.08.12
Gender life expectancy could converge by 2030
Men could soon expect to live as long as women, and in some cases outlive them, new research suggests.
A report by Professor Les Mayhew of Cass Business School, part of City University London, shows that healthier lifestyles have contributed to the predicted convergence.
A significant reduction in the prevalence of male smoking, fewer men working in dangerous professions such as mining, and female life expectancy increasing at a lower rate means that life expectancy could reach parity in 2030.
This will present further challenges for the public sector, Prof Mayhew suggested.
The report reads: “The economic and practical ramifications of the postponement of death over a long period are considerable. The extra years lived into a person’s 80s and beyond will require assets to be decumulated over more years putting a strain on personal finances.
“In addition, both the state and families as well as individuals will experience increases in health and social care costs and there may not be enough caregivers to look after all older people in the future.”
However, the report also states the higher male life expectancy means that men can work for longer to support the growing ageing population.
Read the report here: www.cass.city.ac.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0019/136243/200ARP.pdf
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