It’s never too late!

2009-11-16

With this report, the Swedish National Institute of Public Health (SNIPH) wants to increase knowledge about, and inspire to the establishment of, meeting places that promote social interaction, physical activity and good eating habits among older people. Examples of good practice projects in municipalities, county councils/healthcare and non-governmental organisations are also included in the report.

The proportion of older people in Sweden is increasing and more people are living to an advance age. This is a positive development, but at the same time it places a growing demand on the welfare system. Forecasts indicate that by 2040 the costs of elderly care and medical care will increase by 270 per cent. Healthy ageing is important to strengthening health and preventing illness. Earlier research has identified four cornerstones for promoting healthy ageing: social interaction and support, meaningfulness and feeling needed, physical activity, and good eating habits. Efforts in these areas improve the quality of life and health of the individual, and also provide economic benefits to society.

Older people themselves report that the availability of meeting places promotes the opportunity of social interaction and participation in different activities, which is important to health and well-being. Many older people feel that they have social support nearby, but this varies depending on nationality, socioeconomic status and living situation.

One challenge is to reach those who feel lonely and who are inactive. Health-promoting activities focusing on social interaction, physical activity and good eating habits are important, as are a wide range of activities and regular visits. Being physically active in everyday life and eating healthy and well-balanced food are important to healthy ageing. However, there are differences based on gender,
education level and socioeconomic situation.

Changing habits is likely to take time and good support from family and friends and the availability of social meeting places are of major importance. Successful public health work involves a holistic view of elderly health, as well as strategies and approaches that are both individual and universal.