My interest in the language of longevity continues. My latest observation - the concept of ‘longevity literacy’ increasingly used by the World Economic Forum. It was first in their 2023 report, Living Longer, Better and has been referenced again in March 2025’s report Future-Proofing the Longevity Economy.
The term is largely explained with reference to individuals’ ‘understanding of how long they will live’. However, I believe it’s a useful phrase to consider more widely, much as we use the terms ‘financially literate’ or ‘digitally literate.’
Key to being longevity literate is ensuring you and your business are proactive rather than reactive – and the WEF highlights that “instead of viewing ageing through a lens of limitations, society must recognize the value of multistage lives, adaptable retirement structures and inclusive financial systems – both to empower individuals and to strengthen the economy.” These are all aspects that we have explored in our work for clients in a range of sectors to help them in their strategic positioning and comms.
Leadership on longevity literacy is undoubtedly an area where businesses can differentiate themselves, in order to benefit their customers, shareholders and employees. In what ways can you claim to be longevity literate?
