Have you heard the old line about youth being wasted on the young? According to the most recent life satisfaction study, there’s more truth to that line than you’d expect.
Looks like in this day and age, Canadian seniors are happier than their younger counterparts.
What the study says
Based on the study released by the Statistics Canada in 2018, people in their 60s, 70s, and 80s had higher life satisfaction scores than people aged 20 to 59. Even better is that among seniors, life satisfaction increases with age!
The study examined nine different areas of life. Seniors were most satisfied with:
- their personal relationships
- their safety
- the quality of their local environment
The study also found that – contrary to popular belief – income was not really associated with life satisfaction. And, 8 out of 10 seniors said that they usually had someone they could depend on for help when they really needed it.
Of all the domains examined, the one that seniors were least satisfied with was their own health. While Canadian seniors are healthier and more active than ever before, the risk of chronic illness and injuries does increase as we get older.
How caregivers can help seniors maintain and improve life satisfaction
Most of the study is good news for seniors and their loved ones. To keep this momentum going and enjoy the best quality of life possible for as long as possible, a safe and comfortable environment, a strong social network, and staying on top of health are key.
In-home care services can help with all of these things and more.
A caregiver provides a senior with someone they can depend on when family and friends live far away or are unable to help due to other commitments. Companionship can help combat senior loneliness and isolation through regular visits or outings. If mobility issues make it difficult for you or your loved one to get out, a caregiver can help with transportation to social functions, church, or appointments.
Home care services can also include home health care that ranges from basic needs to more advanced RN-supervised home care medical services.
Some of these include:
- healthy meals
- medication reminders
- regular exercise
- wound care
- pain management
- chronic disease care for cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and other conditions
Some other tips for staying healthy and happy
Here are a few other things that seniors can do to stay healthy and happy, longer:
- Talk to others – never underestimate the power of a friendly chat!
- Stay active, even if it’s just taking a short walk or doing some chair exercises.
- Eat healthy to keep your immune system strong – not to mention your bowels regular!
- Find a hobby that brings you joy and don’t be afraid to try new things.
- Get a good night’s sleep to maintain good mental and physical health.
- Try to get outside every day.
David Porter, CPCA
Director
Living Assistance Services – Senior Home Care