What should you know?
In 1917, King George V began sending congratulatory telegrams to all UK citizens reaching their 100th birthday. That year, only 24 greetings were sent, and the estimated population of centenarians in the UK was less than 50.
Fast forward to 2023, and that figure had surged to 16,140 — more than doubling over the past 20 years.
This dramatic rise is a powerful reminder of how rapidly lifespans are increasing. With ongoing advancements in medical science, this trend is expected to continue.
Why should you care?
In The 100-Year Life, co-authors Lynda Gratton and Andrew J. Scott propose we are entering an era of unprecedented longevity — one that will profoundly reshape the way we live, work, and plan our lives.
Longer lifespans offer immense opportunity but also bring unique challenges. Retirement will no longer be a 20-year wind-down to an eventual demise, but a full life-stage in its own right — one that, with good planning, may last longer than our working years.
It’s never been more important to consider how you will spend that time, and how resilient your finances are to the possible scenarios a longer life can bring. The sustainability and adaptability of both your money and your lifestyle are now more important than ever.
