The New Longevity: The Hidden Engine of the Future Economy

Imagine a city where older adults not only receive care, but also drive businesses, found cooperatives, teach digital skills, and design products. This city is not a utopia: it is the heart of the new longevity and the silver economy.

For years, the aging population was viewed as a problem. Today, with a different perspective, we know that living longer and better is not only possible, but also desirable and offers great economic potential. This phenomenon—the new longevity—puts people over 60 at the center of innovation, growth, and an active social life.

The silver economy encompasses all products and services designed for, with, and by older adults. But this goes far beyond consumption: the new longevity has a social, human, and economic impact.

In Mexico, for the 2020 census, more than 15 million people were over 60 years old (INEGI, 2020), and by 2050 it will be almost 35 million.

And we're not just talking about numbers: we're talking about a working population with knowledge, experience, ideas, properties, social networks, and even savings. In short, a huge human capital that we're still not fully utilizing.

This group is driving sectors such as accessible tourism, adapted housing, personalized healthcare, user-friendly technology, insurance, continuing education, and volunteering. It also creates opportunities for other generations. But the next step remains.

In our country, the prevailing idea is that old age is synonymous with dependency. There aren't enough policies that recognize older adults as key economic players. And that's a waste of talent.

Less than 40% of those over 65 receive a contributory pension. Many continue to work informally or rely on family support. This is not only unfair, it's also inefficient. The experience and creativity are there, waiting for a place.

The true potential of the new longevity lies not only in the marketplace, but in what older people can achieve given the right conditions. The World Bank (2024) states that investing in healthy longevity improves the economy, public health, and creates jobs. Older people are an investment, not an expense.

Mexico has a great opportunity. If we move away from the welfare-based approach and invest in intergenerational innovation, senior entrepreneurship, and cities and services designed for all ages, we can make aging a strategic asset.

The new longevity isn't just about adding years. It's about living them with purpose, joy, and impact.

And what role do you want to play in this transformation? Whether you're 60, 70, or 80, your experience counts. It's time to speak up, to propose, to take action, to enjoy, and to lead. The silver economy isn't the future: it's already here.