Quality of life in old age: Austria is lagging behind Europe!

Quality of life in old age: Austria is lagging behind Europe!

The quality of life of senior people in Austria remains alarmingly low compared to other European countries. A current study by the Medical University of Vienna shows that the additional years of life that many Austrians gain are often not spent in good health. According to the study, which analyzed data from over 10,000 people aged 65 and over over a period of 13 years, older people, the chronically ill and those with low incomes are particularly disadvantaged. In 2021, the average number of years of life in good health was only 61.3 years for women and 61.5 years for men - below the EU average of 64.2 years and 63.1 years respectively, as Today.at reported.

Regional differences and social factors

The report shows a clear divide between the different regions of Austria. Residents from western federal states such as Tyrol or Vorarlberg enjoy significantly more healthy years of life compared to those in the east of the country. Gender-specific differences can also be observed: While women perform worse in many areas of quality of life, these differences even out when socio-economic factors such as income and education are taken into account. This highlights the importance of socioeconomic conditions, which can significantly contribute to improving quality of life in old age, says Richard Felsinger, the study's lead author. This worrying trend is also pointed out MyDistrict.at there.

The study also found progress in access to social support services and a decline in educational and income inequalities between men and women. These developments are reflected in a positive perception of psychological and social aspects of quality of life. Nevertheless, the challenge remains: Austria's seniors urgently need to receive better living conditions and health conditions in order to significantly increase healthy life expectancy and contribute to improving their quality of life.