In September, COTA SA’s The Plug-in heard from 113 older people about the importance of physical and mental health as we age.
“It. Means. Everything.”
In a snapshot, 67% of respondents rate themselves in being in good/somewhat good health, 13% were neutral, and 18% felt they were in poor/somewhat poor health.
For most, being in good health means the ability to live life well by continuing to be active and independent (33%), feeling positive/good mental wellbeing (32%) and having good connections in community and with family and/or friends (25%).
“Means quality of life, which I have not got, neither my wife as well.”
Respondents use a variety of ways to maintain health, such as having basic health services nearby (91%), engaging in physical activity (88%), spending time with friends and family (82%), and engaging with nature, green spaces and gardening (80%).
“I’m able to do the things I want to and can deal with setbacks and stressors in my life without falling to pieces.”
To be informed and up to date with maintaining health, people rely heavily on Doctor or other health professionals (86%), internet searches (79%) and word of mouth (76%).
The most significant barriers to maintaining health are concerns/capacity of the health system (43%), cost of health services/lack of financial resources (42%) and a lack of local specialist/allied health services (20%).
Health system concerns and capacity relate to wait times for specialists/surgeries in the public health system, major gaps in health care or home care assistance in regional areas, medication management, and associated expenses related to health care.
Respondents who live further away from key health care services, or regionally, either expressed relief they can still drive themselves to and from medical and specialist appointments. Others who had injuries or illnesses that temporarily or permanently impaired independent travel, expressed frustration at the lack of services available to support their health.
In contrast, there were some respondents who feel there are no barriers to maintaining their health (20%). Being physically active, and individual or group fitness classes are seen as an important part of supporting health and wellbeing, with people sharing positive experiences or a desire for greater access to these types of activities.
“I started suffering from constant neural pain referred from my lower back down my legs when I was about 45. Physio and neural stretches were mildly effective. At age 55 discovered deep-water aquarobics. Have been doing this 3 times weekly for 15 years, and have only had 2 brief recurrences since. Recently (age 69) have started Strength for Life e times weekly. Both great for physical activity and social interaction.”
The information you share helps COTA SA and The Plug-in to understand what is important to older people. The findings from this survey will help COTA SA advocate to ensure the voices of older people are reflected and inform COTA SA’s policy platform development to government.
