Health needs
How front of mind are our cohort’s evolving health needs, and what plans are they putting in place to accommodate them?
Health is top of mind — even when life feels stable
For many, health was already front and centre - not because of immediate crisis, but because of a growing awareness that anything could change. While several participants described themselves as currently healthy and active, that stability felt fragile - and often temporary.
“At the moment, touch wood, I am healthy. At 71, I swim three times a week. I walk a lot... but I realised that my future was in my own hands.”
“Lots of my friends who do not do hobbies and exercise and pursue healthy activity... they’re already falling by the wayside.”
Even those who weren’t facing serious health challenges spoke about the need to futureproof - to think ahead to a time when physical or cognitive decline might impact where and how they live.
Planning is hazy — but not absent
Despite high awareness, concrete planning for future health needs was uneven. Some had explored home adaptations or considered proximity to healthcare services, while others were still “thinking about thinking about it.”
Participants frequently cited the desire to remain independent for as long as possible — which, paradoxically, meant they were often reluctant to take steps that might imply decline or dependency.
“We are thinking of moving home... We’ll purchase a place where we can possibly have or buy an annex… but our future plans are worrying.”
“I wonder how the hospitals will be around me. I wonder if there'll be social care.”
Avoiding the burden of care
One of the strongest motivators around health planning wasn’t personal comfort — it was not wanting to become a burden to others. This sentiment came through clearly in the way participants talked about the future: with empathy for their children or carers, and a desire to stay in control of their own decisions.
“Of course it is in my mind, because I don't want to be a burden on anyone... it’s a very weird feeling, and you don’t want it.”
“The advantage of renting is that you have no liabilities once you leave... On balance, if I'm going to do it, I would rent.”
Keeping healthy is a strategy, not just a lifestyle
Where deeper or institutional care was concerned, participants often described a lack of trust and transparency. Terms like “deferred fees” or the structure of care contracts were met with uncertainty, scepticism or outright suspicion.
Several people mentioned the need for clearer, more personalised advice - especially legal or financial guidance tied to future care needs. Without that clarity, making plans felt risky or premature.
“I would study it very hard… I’d like to be reassured it isn’t like [losing my estate].”
“I'd like to run it past the solicitor to see what I'm really getting into.”
source: Boomer + beyond_Living well later_qualitative research study_2024