The Economics of Ageing - Help people to look and feel better

Justifiably, there has been extensive literature and thought leadership of the impact on an ageing population. (note my comment on Iran a few days ago - one of the few countries that doesn't have this problem at the moment!). However, in my quest to remain constructive, I think it is important to look at the short term opportunities here.

In my opinion, the key is not to keep people alive longer as much as to ensure that their quality of life remains high as they age. If '50 is the new 40' etc etc, then the key is to help older folks enjoy their senior years. This comes down to helping them feel better and look better.

My initiative in Cordyceps and other Chinese Herbs, is a consequence of my belief that such supplements can genuinely provide more energy. This is not energy of the nature of a shot of red bull, but rather a consistent and long term support that lets you enjoy a full day. We have all experienced (or certainly know someone who has) days when extra activity or even stress means that we need a nap in the afternoon or where we feel exhausted in the early evening. This stops us enjoying a full day and can inhibit planning for fun or otherwise rewarding activities.

Whether cordyceps or other approaches, the demand for support in sustaining through a full day will continue to increase.

With regards to looking good, I am a firm believer that the psychological impact of feeling as if you look to be in good health is a key contributor to how you actually feel. Whilst cosmetics will help here, nutrition and even clothing can help. I believe that this also is a commercial opportunity with room to grow.

I could mention that the likes of L'Oreal have started producing Cordycep based skin products but that would sound as if I was 'pitching' again for www.3cordyceps.com :)

However, the reality is that on the day the technology world is getting excited about the launch of a new Apple operating system, lets not forget that it is not just kids that love their iPhone. Seniors with deteriorating eyesight love the ease of 'pinching' for larger text and the ease of using an iPad rather than a PC. They also love the games! All of this makes them 'feel' younger. I doubt that many articles in the tech world today will talk about this, but the iPhone/iPad family have contributed as much to older folks feeling better about themselves as any cosmetic, or dare I say, nutritional supplement.