In our continued examination of global forces that impact cultural trends and human lifestyles, one such force to be reckoned with is that continued closing age-gap

While the world consistently adapts to meet the ever-evolving needs of youth culture, it is also preparing itself for the most rapidly aging population in history. This force is quite literally driven by the demographic realities and consequences of global aging - increasing life expectancy as well as sheer growth in aging populations . This shifting focus on the necessary symbiotic relationship between emerging populations and those with more seniority will continue to have a significant impact on global social systems, culture and consumerism

This concept can be broken down using a steep model, with starter thoughts as follows

Social Factors:

•Increased life expectancy

•Redefining traditional culture: traditional wisdom and "old-fashioned" ideas as new age and modern

•The currency of wisdom

Technological Factors:

•Ageless ergonomics: product designs meeting in the middle

•Mobile life: socialization no longer limited by mobility

•Advancing medical science: performance enhancing drugs

•Populating the virtual world

Economic  Factors:

•Aging workforce and participants in commerce

•Increased Social welfare dependency requiring long range solutions

•Culture of long term investment: spreading spending power over time

•Extended family planning: real estate, transportation solutions, education and workforce dynamics

Ecological Factors

•Fueling active lifestyles

•Urban sprawl

•Natural / holistic health exploration

Political

•Healthcare and social security focus

•Ageless activism: increased engagement in political process at all ages

•Life or death ethics debate: genetic research, experimental medicine

We are constantly tracking with this and other Forces that affect our world.  Our Trend Application process helps us help our clients figure out what these forces and the Trends they trickle-down to mean for your business. We would love to help you and your team turn insights into action!