Policy Hub
On 28 November 2007, ILC-UK published a policy brief (Successful ageing and social interaction) which draws on new research from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
The brief says that the ageing of the UK population means it is vitally important to understand what factors are associated with ‘ageing well’. Early evidence suggested that high physical, mental and social functioning were all important components of ageing well. However, there are now increasing indications that older people can compensate and experience good mental health even if physical health is poor, and that social interaction in particular may be important.
This brief explores what factors are associated with successful ageing amongst the oldest old in the UK and considers the relationship between physical and mental ageing. It shows the remarkable capacity of older individuals to ‘remain positive’ despite poor physical outcomes.
Successful ageing and social interaction