Abstract:
Older people tend to consult with their doctors when
health problems are well established, yet rarely use
these services proactively to prevent illness. They report
having good health despite seeking treatment for a number
of chronic health conditions. The literature suggests
that older people relate health with being independent
and free of pain and other discomfort, and having the
ability to maintain their usual life patterns, including
social activities and personal relationships. Surveying 200
English-speaking persons over 65 years of age in
urban and rural regions of NSW confirms these findings.
Thirty five of those surveyed volunteered to record a
self-report health log which was informed by the suruey
findings. The participants reported that the log
made them more aware of the many factors which support
health and well-being, assisted them to assess and
monitor their health and provided an incentive to preuent
further health deterioration by taking positive actions,
including consulting with medical practitioners.
