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Policy Implications of Changing Longevity

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  • Pierre Pestieau
  • Gregory Ponthiere

Abstract

Our societies are witnessing a steady increase in longevity. This demographic evolution is accompanied by some convergence across countries, whereas substantial longevity inequalities persist within nations. The goal of this article is to survey some crucial implications of changing longevity on the design of optimal public policy. For that purpose, we first focus on some difficulties raised by risky and varying lifetime for the representation of individual and social preferences. Then, we explore some central implications of changing longevity for optimal policy making, regarding prevention against premature death, pension policies, and long-term care. (JEL codes: H21, H55, I12, I13, J10)

Suggested Citation

  • Pierre Pestieau & Gregory Ponthiere, 2014. "Policy Implications of Changing Longevity," CESifo Economic Studies, CESifo Group, vol. 60(1), pages 178-212.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:cesifo:v:60:y:2014:i:1:p:178-212.
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    2. Pestieau, Pierre & Racionero, Maria, 2016. "Harsh occupations, life expectancy and social security," Economic Modelling, Elsevier, vol. 58(C), pages 194-202.

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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • H21 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Efficiency; Optimal Taxation
    • H55 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Social Security and Public Pensions
    • I12 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Behavior
    • I13 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Health Insurance, Public and Private
    • J10 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - General

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