Australian Bureau Of Statistics

Older Australians Are Becoming More Active

Victor P Taffa

Older Australians have active social lives and are getting more exercise, according to new data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

The number of older Australians aged 65 years and over who participated in exercise or physical recreation increased from 44.5 % in 2012 to 49.2 % in 2015.”ABS Program Manager of Health and Disability Statistics Justine Boland said.

“This is great news, as we know an active and social lifestyle is associated with better health outcomes.” Ms. Boland said.

In 2015, there were an estimated 3.5 Million people aged 65 years and over, representing 1 in every 7 people (15.1 %). This proportion has increased from 14.3 % in 2012 and 13.3 % in 2009.

While the proportion of older Australians has increased, the prevalence of disability amongst older people has decreased.

“In 2015, 50.7 % of older people were living with disability, down from 52.7 % in 2012.” Ms. Boland said.

The proportion of all older Australians who needed assistance with at least one activity has also decreased to 38.6 % in 2015, down from 41.9 % in 2012.

“These findings reveal a positive trend that older Australians are healthier, living longer without disability and are in less need of assistance.” Ms. Boland said.