Freakonomics Radio 638. Are You Ready for the Elder Swell?
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Jun 27, 2025 
Featuring James Chappel, a history professor at Duke University and author focused on aging's societal implications, alongside Andrew Scott from the London Business School, who examines the economics of longevity. They discuss the imminent 'elder swell' in the U.S., where seniors will outnumber youth and the importance of modernizing our approach to aging. They explore infrastructure readiness, innovations in healthcare, and redefining aging as a privilege rather than a burden, emphasizing the need for systemic reforms and inclusive policies for a longer, healthier society.
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The Coming Elder Swell
- The U.S. will soon have more people over 65 than under 18, a trend called the "elder swell."
- Improvements in healthspan mean older adults today are physically and cognitively younger than prior generations at the same age.
Dog Longevity Startup Story
- Celine Halioua founded Loyal to develop drugs that extend dogs' healthspan and lifespan.
- Her approach focuses on metabolic fitness and mimicking caloric restriction benefits without reducing food intake.
America's Aging Policy History
- America's aging population is unprecedented, growing from 2-4% elderly to 20%.
- Social Security and Medicare were significant 20th-century policies securing old age care but have inefficiencies and face future challenges.
