Healthier aging only helps the economy, society

For instance, a recent McKinsey Health Institute report estimated if more older adults who want to work in the U.S. re-entered the workforce, it could unleash about $1.7 trillion in potential economic power annually. If older adults found it easier to volunteer, it would result in an additional 100 billion hours of volunteering.

Stern’s perspective offers a brighter and more realistic future than the typical doom story about aging. The personal finance message is that nurturing connection and lifelong learning improves finances.

More broadly, everyone stands to gain — emotionally, physically, financially and economically — if society supports and encourages engagement throughout life, including the later years.

Chris Farrell is senior economics contributor for “Marketplace” and a commentator for Minnesota Public Radio.