'The Longevity Revolution', a book on how to reorganize work in a world where we live (and work) longer

In Italy, over-50s represent over 41% of the workforce, but only 25% of those aged between 55 and 65 have access to training, compared to 41% of the 45–54 age group. Women over 50 are 32% less likely to receive a promotion than their male colleagues, while the employment rate of under-35s has fallen to 22.4%.

“In 2040 , people over 50 will represent 75% of consumption in Italy . Yet, the world of work continues to ignore them.” This paradox is the starting point of the investigation of La Rivoluzione della Longevità, the new book by Myriam Defilippi, a journalist for “Donna Moderna” who deals with issues related to school and training, work and female empowerment, and Maurizio De Palma, CEO and Co-Founder of Cocooners – The longevity company, the first Italian platform for content and services for over 55s, to be published by Il Sole 24 Ore. A current and necessary work that addresses with lucidity and vision one of the most profound transformations of our time: the impact of longevity on society, the economy and, above all, on the world of work.

In a context in which the dominant narrative speaks of a “Silver tsunami” with alarmist tones, the authors propose a radical change of perspective : not to suffer the aging of the population, but to enhance it as a resource. The new senior is distinguished by a strong desire for autonomy, a marked propensity for continuous learning and a surprising openness towards technology. As long as health allows, he does not retreat into traditional roles linked to retirement, but takes on new paths: he starts second careers, dedicates himself to volunteering, travels, cultivates passions and personal projects. More than material goods, he gives value to experiences and social relationships, keeping alive the search for personal growth and self-realization even in the more mature stages of life.

Through rigorous analysis, rich in data, research and interviews with experts, managers and scholars, The Longevity Revolution explores the great demographic changes underway, such as the increase in life expectancy, the decline in birth rates and the transformation of the population structure. Italy, among the countries with the longest life expectancy in the world, is also one of the most exposed to these changes. Yet, as the authors point out, public debate and labor policies still struggle to grasp their significance.

The heart of the book is dedicated to understanding how work is changing and must change : from the need to overcome ageism and prejudices towards senior workers, to the promotion of continuous training and lifelong learning models; from the valorization of experience through mentoring and reverse mentoring programs, to the construction of inclusive and flexible work environments, capable of accommodating the needs of all ages. Ample space is also dedicated to the role of women over 50, often doubly penalized by gender and age discrimination, and to the need for a welfare system that truly supports the conciliation of professional life and care responsibilities.

The volume ends with a manifesto for intergenerational and inclusive work, divided into ten points, which proposes a new work model to enhance all ages, promoting inclusion, well-being and collaboration between generations. It invites companies to select candidates fairly, invest in continuous training, recognize the experience of seniors, offer organizational flexibility and support those who take care of family members. It also provides gradual paths to retirement and maintaining the bond with former employees, to build a more humane, sustainable and productive work environment for everyone.

The volume will be on newsstands, for a month, from June 7th at a cost of €12.90 (in addition to the price of the newspaper); it will be available in bookstores from June 13th at €16.90.