Health-promoting factors and good health among Canadians in mid- to late life.

According to results from the Canadian Community Health Survey-Healthy Aging, 76% of Canadians in mid-life (45 to 64) and 56% of seniors reported good health in 2009. This is based on a definition of health composed of: positive self-perceived general and mental health, functional ability, and independence in activities of daily living. Good health existed even in the presence of chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, arthritis and back problems, all of which were common among people aged 45 or older. Eight modifiable factors were associated with good health: smoking status, body mass index, physical activity, diet, sleep, oral health, stress, and social participation. Eighty-four percent of the younger age group and 91% of seniors reported positive tendencies on four or more of these factors. The more factors on which positive tendencies were reported, the greater the likelihood of having good health.