As we get older, looking after our well-being becomes even more important, helping us enjoy an active lifestyle, a fulfilling retirement, and the energy to keep up with the grandkids.
However, for many, the later years of life can bring some challenges, from health issues to feelings of isolation or low mood. But new research offers an encouraging message to older adults: it’s possible to regain and maintain optimal well-being well into old age.
A study from the University of Toronto, published in PLOS ONE, found that nearly one in four older adults who initially reported poor well-being had regained a strong sense of wellness within just three years.
The research drew on data from more than 8,000 Canadians aged 60 and over who were part of the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. These individuals were not thriving at the beginning of the study but were assessed again three years later.
Encouragingly, about one quarter had managed to return to what researchers call “optimal well-being” — a combination of physical health, emotional stability, social connection, and overall life satisfaction.
Lead author Mabel Ho said the findings serve as a powerful reminder that struggles in later life don’t have to be permanent.
“What’s powerful about this research is the reminder that later life can still be fulfilling, even after difficult periods. Good health is important, but so are the people, meaning, and joy we have in our lives,” Ho said.
The study uncovered several key factors that made recovery more likely:
Emotional strength mattered most. Those who already had some psychological and emotional wellness were almost five times more likely to bounce back.
Healthy habits played a big role. Being physically active, avoiding smoking, and addressing sleep problems were strongly linked to improved well-being.
Social and financial stability also helped. Being married and living above the poverty line increased the chances of regaining wellness.
Younger age within the study group made a difference too — those under 70 were more likely to recover than their older peers.
Senior author Professor Esme Fuller-Thomson noted that these insights should guide policies and community programs
“This is a clear call to invest in prevention, financial stability, and accessible wellness supports—because these aren’t just smart policies, they can potentially improve the trajectory of aging for older adults who are struggling,” Fuller-Thomson said.
While growing older inevitably brings challenges, this research reminds us that it’s always possible to maintain — and even regain — a sense of well-being by looking after our health, staying connected to others, and finding joy in the things that matter most.
IMPORTANT LEGAL INFO This article is of a general nature and FYI only, because it doesn’t take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. That means it’s not personalised health advice and shouldn’t be relied upon as if it is. Before making a health-related decision, you should work out if the info is appropriate for your situation and get professional medical advice.