Successful aging in health care institutions.
OBJECTIVE
This article explores factors associated with positive self-perceived health among Canadian seniors who live in health care institutions.


METHODS
Cross-sectional and longitudinal data are from the institutional and household files of the National Population Health Survey (NPHS).


METHODS
Prevalence rates of positive self-perceived health were estimated using 1996/97 cross-sectional data from the NPHS. Logistic regression models were used to identify factors associated with positive self-perceived health. With four cycles of longitudinal data, the relationship between positive self-perceived health and mortality was explored using survival analysis.


RESULTS
In 1996/97, 43% of the institutional population aged 65 or older reported positive self-perceived health. Institutional residents with positive self-perceived health had a lower risk of mortality. The odds of positive self-perceived health were higher for those who were usually free of pain and were independent. Participation in social and recreational activities and having a close relationship with at least one staff member of the institution were associated with positive self-perceived health.
Ramage-Morin
Pamela L
PL
Health Statistics Division at Statistics Canada, Ottawa, Ontario. Pamela.Ramage-Morin@statcan.ca
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000375:Aging; D040561:Assisted Living Facilities; D002170:Canada / Q000453:epidemiology; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000453:epidemiology; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006305:Health Status Indicators; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012944:Social Support