The Longevity Economy: Unlocking the World's Fastest-Growing, Most Misunderstood Market

Summary

As the director of the MIT AgeLab, Joseph Coughlin has studied trends in demographics and technology and spearheaded research and innovation to improve the quality of life for older people and those who care for them. Now, in The Longevity Economy, he uses this expertise to break new ground in understanding this market, which composes an ever-increasing share of the total population.

While companies see the size and wealth of this market, they all too often use outdated narratives to figure out what this demographic really wants. Coughlin debunks conventional wisdom and provides the framing needed to be in sync with this influential and lucrative market. He uses fascinating examples from a wide variety of sectors, from financial services to housing, health care, consumer products, and personal relationships. He showcases the work of companies like PillPack, an online pharmacy that delivers presorted medicine to your home; OXO, which makes ergonomic utensils; and edX, an online learning platform that makes it easy for older people to learn from home.

Coughlin’s insights will help businesses connect with older consumers, who continue to defy expectations, contribute to economic growth, and build a better, enduring vision of old age.