Health Status Perception of People Close to Retirement Age: Relationship with Mental Health and Healthy Habits

Abstract

Background: The ageing of today's society intensifies the need for the correct and healthy ageing of the elderly, in order to ensure their overall well-being. Practical strategies are needed to acquire healthy habits at this stage of life. The aim of this study is to analyse the life habits of subjects close to retirement age and the factors that could influence these habits (gender, physical and mental health). Methods: A national (Spain) observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study, in which people close to retirement age are surveyed. The online survey included matters regarding socio-demographic, family, work, leisure, social participation and health indicators. Results: The study comprised of 1,700 participants (581 working; 714 retired), average age = 63 years (DT 5.7); 52% women. Most reported having a satisfactory social life (90%), living in pairs (74%), not smoking (80%), following a Mediterranean diet (73%) and taking medicines daily (70%). Disability (WHODAS-12) was higher in men (8.2 vs 6.5, p<0.001) although women showed more health problems and depression (mild-severe) (27% vs 17%, p<0.001), with a healthier diet and lower physical/work activity. The multivariate model showed a significant association of health status (EQ-VAS) with disability level, number of chronic diseases, sleep habits, exercise, diet, and alcohol consumption. When the level of depression was introduced, age and being a woman were also found to be related. In the subgroup of those retired or working (n=1295), retirees reported a better health status, associated with less disability, fewer chronic illnesses, lower depression, good eating and sleeping habits, and exercise. Conclusions: The results show that retirement does not necessarily mean worse health, but rather an opportunity in life to reinforce favourable health activities and correct those lifestyle factors that deteriorate it. This, together with the differences observed according to gender in the perception of clinical and psychological health, will allow for the design of strategies that promote healthy ageing.