This book is an authoritative analysis of the social and economic implications of global increased life expectancy. Can we provide enough pensions for old people to live comfortably? How can old people be empowered to play a more positive role in society? What will the role of grandparents be in the emerging new social structures? What are the implications for health services? How can the very old be cared for? Providing a wealth of statistical and quantitative evidence and compiled by leading economists working at the forefront of this area, the authors argue that these challenges are not insurmountable, but societies everywhere need to put in place the required policies to confront these challenges effectively.