The Economic Case for Investing in Healthy Aging

February 2, 2026

Recent research from McKinsey Health Institute shows that investing $1 annually in healthy aging interventions can yield $3 in economic and healthcare benefits in the United States—and potentially in other countries.   As the world undergoes one of the most profound demographic shifts in history, societies are confronted with a once-in-a-generation choice: adapt and reimagine systems to support longevity for all or risk stagnation with outdated structures.  Previous research by the McKinsey Health Institute (MHI) demonstrated that improving the quality of life for older adults and achieving economic growth are not mutually exclusive. On the contrary, initiatives that improve healthy aging often result in social and economic benefits.2 These findings underscore the importance of promoting healthy aging through disease prevention, social inclusion, and support for a healthy lifestyle, as these strategies improve quality of life for older adults and generate economic benefits.