Older Canadians who are socially connected, physically healthy, and spiritually engaged are more likely to experience complete mental health, according to an April 8 study examining adults aged 65 and older.
The research used data from Statistics Canada's 2022 Mental Health and Access to Care Survey, analyzing responses from over two thousand participants. The study focused on both the absence of psychiatric disorder and a broader measure called complete mental health, which includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being in addition to freedom from mental illness.
Researchers found that being married or in a common-law relationship, having strong social support, good physical health ratings, no chronic pain or sleep problems, and no limitations in daily activities were all linked with better mental health outcomes. Social support was highlighted as especially important. "Social relationships appear to be a cornerstone of mental well-being in later life," said Shannon Halls, Research Coordinator at the Institute for Life Course & Aging at the University of Toronto. "Having people to rely on during stressful times may buffer against psychological distress and promote resilience, happiness, and a sense of purpose."
Spirituality also played a significant role for many respondents. "Spiritual beliefs may help older adults cope with adversity by providing meaning, hope, and a sense of community," said co-author Ying Jiang of the Public Health Agency of Canada. Physical factors such as freedom from chronic pain or sleep issues were also closely tied to positive outcomes.
The study noted that living in large urban centers was associated with lower odds of complete mental health compared to rural living. Senior author Esme Fuller-Thomson said: "These findings underscore that mental health in aging is shaped by a complex interplay of social, physical, and environmental factors." She added that public health strategies focusing on strengthening social ties and addressing pain or sleep issues could improve well-being among older adults.
The authors suggest that many risk factors identified can be changed through targeted interventions like community programs or healthcare supports aimed at promoting social connection or managing chronic conditions.
