11 things that make older Australians happy

A report from National Seniors latest survey outlines the diverse and personal paths to happiness for older Australians, moving beyond common factors like wealth and health.
Based on a survey of 2,517 respondents aged 50 to 97, the findings revealed that there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to well-being in later life. The research identified 11 distinct personas that capture the core principles and beliefs driving older people's happiness.

11 Personas: Paths to Happiness

These are the 11 personas National Seniors have created from their survey.

Financial and Personal Security

Survival Realists: Happiness is having enough money to cover the basics, including housing, and ideally, a little bit extra for comfort.
Fierce Independents: Happiness is staying independent through great health, wealth, and having control over one's life choices, including decisions about end-of-life care.
Stability Seekers: Happiness is a profound sense of security and certainty, an assurance that the life they've planned won't be suddenly upended by social or technological change.

Purpose and Engagement

Keen Participators: Happiness is having the time, money, and ability to pursue interests such as travel, hobbies, work, or volunteering, maintaining a sense of purpose and contribution.
Social Connectors: Happiness is relationships with family, friends, or community members, and having the means to find like-minded people and foster belonging.
Nest Featherers: Happiness is a fulfilling home life, whether that's with a loving partner, enjoying solo bliss, or having the companionship of pets.

Societal and Systemic Change

Policy Enthusiasts: Happiness is seeing improvements to retirement income, aged care, and other support systems that affect older people's lives.
Global Idealists: Happiness is tied to a functioning, active civil society, government integrity, and significant changes that protect the environment, social justice, and peace.
Respect Warriors: Happiness is respect for the contributions older people make and have made, and the elimination of ageism in society.

Internal Well-being

Inner Peaceniks: Happiness comes from one's own mindset, attitude, and approach to life, often including faith and spiritual connections.
Unique Individuals: Happiness is idiosyncratic and diverse, including unique interests like reiki, better access for people with disabilities, or a broader range of sport on TV.

Key Takeaway

The report's central finding is that older Australians are a diverse group who cannot be boxed into simplistic stereotypes. Effective strategies to improve the happiness of this demographic must acknowledge and address this complexity and individuality, focusing on a blend of financial stability, personal autonomy, social inclusion, and systemic change. You can read more here.

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