Global health. The current scenario and future perspectives

239 15. Unveiling the Longevity Revolution: Key Elements for a Comprehensive Understanding of the Phenomenon Rafael A. Estévez Valencia, Jorge Ramírez Flores We are currently experiencing what has been called the “Longevity Revolution“ (Kalache, 2013), with individuals now living approximately 30 years longer than their parents’ generation. This shift requires the creation of a more age-friendly society, particularly for those aged 65 and above. Urgent recognition is needed for the significant number of older individuals who possess the skills, motivation and health to remain socially and economically active well beyond the traditional retirement age. While traditional societies have developed welfare programs for older adults, there is a growing population of healthy and highly competent seniors seeking to maintain their social and economic engagement. It is imperative to acknowledge their right to age well and actively contribute to societal advancement. Rethinking our societal structures involves more than just healthcare considerations, although these are crucial in extending lifespan. Embracing active aging requires a holistic approach which encompasses aspects such as participation and security (International Longevity Centre Brazil, 2015). Research in health, physical fitness and social sciences plays a pivotal role in redesigning an aging society, fostering collaboration and coexistence among genders and generations and ensuring fulfilling lives for both current and future long-lived generations. Some Biological and Epidemiological Data A few years ago, a significant demographic milestone was reached when individuals over 65 years old outnumbered those under 5 years old for the first time in history (United Nations, 2010). Projections indicate that by 2060, older adults will represent 30% of the population (CEPAL, 2017). Against this backdrop, Chile is poised to become the longest-lived country in Latin America in the near future. With a current life expectancy of 80.3 years, Chile ranks among the countries in Latin America with the highest life expectancy (World Bank, 2020). Furthermore, Chile is experiencing a steady decline in its proportion of young people under 15 years old, which stood at only 19.7% in 2020.