Remarkable gains in life expectancy, declines in fertility and the progression of relatively large-sized cohorts to older ages have led to an ageing global population. However, the coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the vulnerability of older adults, many with co-morbidities resulting in seriously diminished functional ability and mortality. At the same time, concerns are intensifying about further detrimental effects on older adults’ well-being caused by measures taken to mitigate the transmission of the virus. To address these and other challenges for older adults, the Global Future Council on Healthy Ageing and Longevity will aim to inform and drive action and impact by engaging stakeholders to shape conversations on COVID and ageing society, identify and scale up good practices required to better respond, and transform the experience of older adults to help them thrive during and after the pandemic.

Co-chairs

Debra Whitman, Chief Public Policy Officer, AARP, USA

Victor Dzau, President, National Academy of Medicine, USA

Council Manager

Sofiat Akinola, Project Lead, Shaping the Future of Health and Healthcare, World Economic Forum