The latest report reveals a stark contrast in life expectancy based on income, with men in the lowest income areas living an average of 77 years, compared to 81.4 years for those in wealthier regions.

It also notes a significant decline in healthy life expectancy across England, except for London, which raises concerns about work and financial security for older adults.

In response to these findings, a spokesperson from the Department of Health and Social Care reiterated the commitment to tackling health disparities linked to social determinants such as postcode.

Dr. Carole Easton, chief executive of the charity, emphasized the urgent need for coordinated action to improve health and longevity for older people.

The Centre for Ageing Better advocates for the establishment of an independent Commissioner for Older People and Aging to specifically address these health inequalities.

From 2021 to 2023, the average healthy life expectancy was recorded at 61.5 years for men and 61.9 years for women, indicating a troubling decline in health quality over time.

Overall, residing in the poorest parts of England can reduce life expectancy by nearly five years, highlighting the impact of socioeconomic factors on health.

Specific examples illustrate this inequality, as men in Hart, Hampshire, can expect to live 83.4 years, while those in Blackpool only reach 73.1 years; similarly, women in Kensington and Chelsea average 86.5 years compared to 78.9 years in Blackpool.

The report, published by the Centre for Ageing Better, underscores the growing regional inequalities in health, particularly affecting northern urban areas.

Women in the poorest areas also face a significant gap, with an average life expectancy of 81.2 years, while their counterparts in affluent areas live to an average of 84.9 years.

At the local authority level, the disparities are even more pronounced; for instance, men in the wealthiest areas can expect to live a decade longer than those in the poorest.

Older adults living in areas with higher poverty rates are nearly three times more likely to be disabled compared to those in wealthier areas, with notable differences in places like Blackpool and Elmbridge.