Australians living longer but working in poor health in later life

A new study has found that Australians are living longer, but they are also working for longer in poor health. The study, published in the journal Lancet Public Health, found that the number of years Australians can expect to live and be healthy has increased by 10 years since 1990. However, the number of years Australians can expect to work in poor health has also increased by 6 years.

Australians living longer but working in poor health in later life

The study’s authors say that this trend is likely due to a number of factors, including the ageing population, the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, and the changing nature of work. They warn that this trend could have a number of negative consequences, including a decline in productivity, an increase in healthcare costs, and a decrease in quality of life for older Australians.

The study’s findings are supported by other research that has shown that older Australians are more likely to be working in physically demanding and mentally stressful jobs. They are also more likely to be working in part-time or casual jobs, which can make it difficult to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

The study’s authors call for a number of policy changes to address the issue of Australians working in poor health in later life. These include:

• Investing in preventive healthcare to help older Australians stay healthy for longer.
• Making workplaces more adaptable to the needs of older workers.
• Providing financial incentives for older workers to retire.
• Promoting flexible retirement options.

The authors say that these policy changes are essential to ensuring that Australians can enjoy a long and healthy retirement.

In addition to the policy changes outlined by the study’s authors, there are a number of things that individuals can do to improve their health and well-being in later life. These include:

• Eating a healthy diet.
• Exercising regularly.
• Getting enough sleep.
• Managing stress.
• Staying socially connected.
• Volunteering.
• Learning new things.

By taking steps to improve their health and well-being, older Australians can increase their chances of working in good health for longer.

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