Healthy living among seniors.
OBJECTIVE
This article investigates good health among Canadian seniors in relation to health behaviours and psychosocial factors.


METHODS
Data are from the 2003 Canadian Community Health Survey and the 1994/95 through 2002/03 National Population Health Survey, household components.


METHODS
Multiple logistic regression modeling was used to study associations between being in good health and behavioural risk and psychosocial factors in 2003. Proportional hazards modelling and logistic regression were used to examine health-related characteristics and psychosocial factors in relation to maintaining and recovering health.


RESULTS
Seniors who exercised frequently, had a body mass index in the normal range, were high consumers of fruit and vegetables and moderate consumers of alcohol were more likely to be in good health. Low levels of stress and feeling connected to the community were also associated with good health. Healthy behaviours were related to maintaining good health over time, as well as increased likelihood of recovery. These findings persisted when controlling for socio-demographic factors and chronic conditions.
Shields
Margot
M
Health Statistics Division, Statistics Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. Margot.Shields@statcan.ca
Martel
Laurent
L
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D002170:Canada; D005260:Female; D015438:Health Behavior; D006304:Health Status; D006306:Health Surveys; D006801:Humans; D008019:Life Style; D016015:Logistic Models; D008137:Longitudinal Studies; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011584:Psychology