Can AI Predict Your Death? My Experiment with the Death Clock

Tue Dec 03 2024 Michael McQueen

Recently, I’ve been diving into research about our declining appetite for uncertainty. In an age where information is instantly available, the idea of being uninformed can be deeply unsettling. Most of us wouldn’t dream of going to a restaurant, booking a hotel, or planning a tour without reading reviews first. While some of this is about avoiding disappointment, it also reflects a broader need to feel a sense of certainty and control over the future—even if, deep down, we know this is just an illusion.

Of course, there are two certainties in life we can count on: death and taxes. And now, even the mystery of death is being unraveled by technology.

For centuries, humans have sought ways to predict how long they might live—whether through actuarial tables, horoscopes, or, more recently, genetic testing. Today, artificial intelligence is stepping in. I recently tried an AI-powered longevity app called Death Clock, which has gained popularity, with 125,000 downloads in its first five months.

The app uses data from over 1,200 life expectancy studies and 53 million participants to calculate a predicted date of death based on factors like stress, diet, sleep, family history, and more.

My results?

Well, I guess I’m pleased to report that I am projected to live until Wednesday, September 4th, 2075, reaching the age of 93. The app even broke down my remaining time: 50 years, 286 days, 29 hours, 17 minutes, and 45 seconds. The AI also predicted my most likely causes of death: cardiovascular disease, cancer, and sleep-related conditions. While the first two don’t take a genius to determine (given they are such predominant causes of death, poor sleep was an interesting factor to consider!)

Interestingly, the app highlighted areas where I could improve my longevity. If I made better lifestyle choices, I could extend my life expectancy by nearly two years. The key factors affecting my longevity include better sleep quality, lower alcohol consumption, and reduced processed food intake. Among the recommendations were improving my sleep, considering supplements like NAD+ boosters (whatever that is) and resveratrol, and discussing GLP-1 receptor agonists and metformin with my doctor.

The whole experience of considering when you might die is fascinating—and a little unnerving. Whether or not we take these predictions seriously, they reflect our enduring desire to control the uncontrollable.

Michael McQueen is a trends forecaster, change strategist and award-winning conference speaker.

He features regularly as a commentator on TV and radio and is a bestselling author of 10 books. His most recent book Mindstuck: Mastering the Art of Changing Minds explores the psychology of stubbornness and the art of 21st century influence. Find out more here.

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For more information on Michael's keynote speaking topics, visit www.MichaelMcQueen.net.

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