Older people reckon they’ll live significantly longer than Generation Z, research shows

OLDER people think they will live significantly longer than younger generations, research has found.

A study of 2,000 adults revealed 35- to 44-year-olds think they’ll reach 81, while those aged under 24 believe they'll only hit 76.

But those over 65 reckon they have a much longer lifespan, typically estimating they will live until 84 - the highest of any age group.

While one in six Gen Z adults are unsure they’ll even make it to retirement.

It also emerged those in the South West have the most pessimistic outlook, believing they won’t live to see their 80s (79 years old) – but those in the East of England reckon they’ll last five years longer (84 years old).

And men think they’ll reach an older age than females, an average of 82 compared to 80 – despite women typically outliving the male gender.

While 65 per cent of all respondents sometimes or often contemplate their own mortality.

A spokesperson from over 50’s life insurance brand British Seniors, which commissioned the study as part of its , said: “The research has revealed a fascinating look into these predictions and differences between gender, location and age group.

“Such conversations are becoming more open than ever – as well as discussion of how you’d like your funeral to look.”

The study also found 53 per cent of adults have discussed the age they might reach with friends, with a third even claiming they’ll outdo them based on their predictions.

But 34 per cent think they’ll outdo the life expectancy for their gender.

The top reasons for this include leading an active lifestyle, not smoking and the fact they keep their brain ticking – as well as having genetics and family history on their side.