Health Survey for England - 2005, Health of Older People [NS]

This report presents detailed findings from the 2005 Health Survey for England. The report focuses on the health of older people - those aged 65 and over.

Older people were asked questions on core topics such as general health, smoking and fruit and vegetable consumption. They were asked about their use of health, dental and social care services, cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic diseases and quality of care, disabilities, falls and mental health. Several measurements were taken by specially trained nurses including height and weight, and blood pressure. Tests of physical function were performed and blood samples taken in order to measure conditions such as anaemia. Measures of social capital were included, for example participation in organised associations and contact with friends and family. Several measures of health were included for the first time: measures of function ie grip strength, walking impairment and ability to balance and a measure of geriatric depression.