Research shows that seniors' quality of life increases with age

According to new research, the quality of life of older Irish people increases with age and peaks at age 68, before starting to deteriorate gradually.

Social factors, such as a person's ability to maintain social networks and activities, have a major influence on quality of life, although health-related factors, such as functional limitations, are also important.

Women, and those living in rural areas, are best placed to enjoy a high quality of life and continue to age through their superior social networks, according to Trinity College Dublin scientists.

Women over the age of 50 are twice as likely as men to report positive supportive relationships. According to the report, this means they are more likely to have a higher quality of life.

At the same time, 55% of respondents in rural areas reported high social cohesion, compared with 19% in Dublin. Connectivity and solidarity within neighborhoods are considered to play an important role in determining public health.

Seven years

The results come from the fourth wave of data from the Irish study "Longitudinal Study on Aging" (Tilda), which tracks more than 8,000 people over the age of 50 in the past seven years.

Social interactions play an important role in suppressing the unwanted inflammation that is part of the aging process, according to the study's principal professor, Rose-Anne Kenny, a TCD professor.

"This report provides evidence of the high volunteer rate among over 50s and the benefits of volunteering, social engagement, friendships, and membership in organizations for health and wellbeing. to be physical and mental, "she says.

"Quality of life continues to improve with age and even more if social commitment is strong, including for people with significant disabilities who enjoy a better quality of life and better health. if their relationship is strong. "

Almost three quarters (74%) of older adults participate in active and social leisure activities each week, while 52% participate in organized groups such as sports groups, reading clubs or charities. However, retirement was not immediately linked to an increase in volunteering or social participation.

Social integration

According to the study, 11% of participants rank in the lowest of the four categories of social integration.

Many remained physically inactive during the years of the survey; 45% do not get the recommended minimum of 150 minutes of exercise per week.

The report also states that most older people live in "problematic" housing conditions, including problems with moisture, mold or moisture.

Older women smoke less and are less likely to use alcohol problematically (9% versus 15% for men).