How long could you live?

How is life expectancy calculated?

Life expectancy is calculated using statistical models based on the analysis of mortality data and population composition. The calculation estimates the number of remaining years of life for a person in a particular age group, based on the current mortality rate for that group. Mortality rates are calculated from death records collected by government agencies or statistical offices. Factors such as sex, ethnic background, socioeconomic status and geographical region are generally also taken into account, as they can influence mortality rates and life expectancy. However, calculating life expectancy is a complex undertaking, as it depends on many factors, including individual genetic predisposition and environmental conditions.

How long do people live in Austria?

Life expectancy in Austria is high compared with other European countries. According to Statistik Austria, average life expectancy in 2021 was 78.99 years for men and 83.73 years for women. These figures have risen steadily over recent decades, reflecting improved healthcare, better living conditions and healthier lifestyles. However, there are regional differences in life expectancy, with people in urban areas tending to live longer than those in rural areas. You can easily calculate your remaining life expectancy using Statistik Austria's life expectancy calculator.

Why do women live longer than men on average?

One possible explanation is that women are biologically more resilient than men and therefore have stronger immune systems. Women also tend to have healthier habits, such as eating a healthier diet, engaging in less risky behaviour and exercising more. Women are also more likely to seek preventive healthcare and have regular check-ups, which can help identify and treat health problems at an early stage. However, social and economic factors, such as access to education and healthcare, can also influence life expectancy.

Another factor that may contribute to women's higher life expectancy is that women have two X chromosomes, whereas men have only one X and one Y chromosome. This may give women greater genetic protection against certain diseases and genetic defects. In addition, defects in some genes on the X chromosome can be compensated for in women, as the second X chromosome may contain healthy copies of these genes that can offset the effects of defective genes.

Where in the world do people live longer?

There are several countries where people live longer on average than in others. Countries with high life expectancy are often characterised by good healthcare, a healthy diet, a good education system, a safe social environment and a healthy lifestyle. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the countries with the highest life expectancy currently include Japan, Switzerland, Singapore, Spain and Italy. In these countries, the population's average life expectancy exceeds 80 years. However, people also enjoy long lives in other countries, such as Canada, Australia and some Scandinavian countries. Life expectancy can also vary from region to region within a country. For example, according to data from Statistik Austria, people in Vorarlberg had the highest life expectancy in Austria in 2021. Average life expectancy at birth in Vorarlberg was 85.05 years for women and 80.1 years for men.

Life expectancy by occupation

Longer life expectancy has also been observed in certain occupations. These include healthcare professions, such as doctors and nurses, who have greater knowledge of health and nutrition and often lead more active lifestyles. People in occupations with lighter workloads and lower stress levels, such as teachers, also generally have a longer life expectancy. However, some occupations may be associated with shorter life expectancy, such as jobs in construction or mining, where there is a higher risk of physical injury and respiratory disease. Ultimately, however, life expectancy depends on many factors, including individual lifestyle, genetic predisposition and access to healthcare.

Implications for businesses and employee benefit provisions

From an actuarial perspective, life expectancy matters not only in a social context but also in business practice. It is a key factor in calculating pension and severance payment obligations. If life expectancy rises, pensions and severance payments must be funded over a longer period, and the company's provisions increase accordingly. If it falls, the average duration of benefit payments decreases, which also has a direct impact on the balance sheet.

This demonstrates that even small changes in life expectancy assumptions can lead to significant differences in the level of employee benefit provisions. For businesses, this means that regularly reviewing biometric assumptions and closely monitoring demographic trends are essential. Only then can long-term obligations be reflected realistically and financial risks identified in good time.