Report: The new map of longevity

Most of us don’t feel our age. In fact, our research shows that 72% of UK adults aged 45 to 75 feel an average of nine years younger than they actually are.¹ And yet, nearly one in three has no plans for their future sense of purpose, and a third haven’t started planning for later life at all.

We surveyed UK adults at the heart of what we call the third quarter – the years between 45 and 75 – to understand what living well for longer really looks like. What we found was striking: 65% feel optimistic about the future, and 63% believe that financial confidence is what gives them the freedom to live a healthier, more meaningful life.¹

This report brings those insights together – across health, wealth and purpose – to help you make the most of the years ahead.

In this report, you’ll discover:

• What people aged 45 to 75 really want from their third quarter and what’s holding them back.
• The link between financial confidence and living well for longer.
• Why staying in control across health, wealth and purpose is the strongest predictor of future satisfaction.
• Practical questions to help you take stock and plan with clarity.

¹ YouGov on behalf of RBC Wealth Management, May 2026. Online survey of 5,672 UK adults aged 45–75 with £2,000 or more in investable assets, including 226 respondents with over £1 million in investable assets (YouGov on behalf of RBC Wealth Management, May 2026).