Who will oppose an ever increasing life expectancy? A rhetorical question, but nevertheless there is a flip side to unrelenting medical progress. The outlines of which are already clear, especially in the ethical realm. Given the technology for monitoring your body, exercise and food intake, to what extent is health an individual responsibility, thus redefining medical solidarity? On top, we see more diseases of affluence and mental disorders that require serious consideration. Living Tomorrow checks the pulse of our future healthcare!
To illustrate: there are babies born today who have a life expectancy of 130 years. While the group of over 65 in our society is constantly growing, bringing longer life, but also more years spent with health problems or reduced mobility. Illnesses are becoming chronic and require additional efforts from the health sector. On top, we are seeing an increase in welfare-related illnesses (so-called diseases of affluence) and mental disorders, including among younger generations. So what are the options, and what role is there for technology in the future healthcare?