While countries like Japan are known for their long life expectancy, other countries may offer even better opportunities for expats to improve their lifespan. Research by health insurance experts at William Russell highlighted destinations with the biggest change in life expectancy.
Researchers noted these stats potentially highlight the top longevity nations of the future. Focusing on the current life expectancy for people aged 60, the experts also took into account healthy life expectancy.
This highlights how long a person lives in good health and usually indicates the age that people start experiencing detrimental disabilities or illnesses that hinder their everyday life or prevent them from doing important activities. The UK’s life expectancy sits at 82, but healthy life expectancy is barely over 61.
South Korea
South Korea experienced the biggest change in life expectancy over the last five years, an impressive feat considering they were already in the top 10 countries globally. Currently, the average 60-year-old in Korea is expected to reach 86 years of age and their health only starts to decline around age 79.
The researchers noted South Korea’s impressive figures are likely due to their healthy diet, with a large amount of fresh fruit, vegetables, fish and poultry. As well as their widely accessible, subsidised healthcare system..
Singapore
An often forgotten destination on the list of top countries for longevity, Singapore also has a life expectancy of 86 but a higher healthy life expectancy of 80. Its recent drastic policy changes around public health are believed to be the catalyst for this jump, such as high taxes on cigarettes and alcohol.
China
A surprising addition for this list, China has a life expectancy less than the UK at just 78. However, having been at 75 in 2011 this is the third-highest jump globally in lifespan over the past decade. The country also boasts a high healthy life expectancy at 68.
The experts noted: “With this increase in longevity, China has shown that it is on course to catch up with other more developed countries where life expectancy has stagnated, or even fallen, such as the United Kingdom and the United States.”
Other countries
Some other notable countries with big improvements on life expectancies include Norway, Malta, Australia, Luxembourg, Azerbaijan and Qatar. In their research, the health insurance experts found some common traits among citizens in countries with growing lifespans.
These included balanced diets, active lifestyles, strong healthcare systems, and supportive communities. The experts concluded: “If you’re considering moving abroad, adapting to local customs and making the most of the country’s health-promoting practices can enhance your well-being.”