Many New Zealanders are optimistic about their future health, but recent research suggests there may be a gap between how long people expect to live and how long they may remain in good health.
According to Southern Cross’s Feel Good Index, nearly 70% of New Zealanders feel positive about their current health and expect to live to around 89. However, Southern Cross also notes that the average New Zealander lives to about 82 and may spend the final 12 years in declining health.
This difference is often described as the gap between lifespan and healthspan.
What is healthspan?
Lifespan is how long a person lives.
Healthspan is the number of years a person spends in good health, able to stay active, independent, and involved in everyday life.
While people often think about living longer, the quality of those later years can be just as important.
Small choices can add up
Chief Medical Officer Dr Stephen Child said improving healthspan often comes down to everyday choices made over time.
These choices do not need to be dramatic. Regular movement, good sleep, social connection, mental wellbeing, and keeping up with health checks can all play a part.
The key message is consistency rather than perfection.
Different decades bring different priorities
Health priorities can also change with age.
In younger adulthood, the focus may be on building healthy habits, staying socially connected, and understanding basic health markers such as blood pressure and cholesterol.
In the 40s, busy work, family, and financial commitments can make it easy for health to become less visible. This can be a good time to make wellbeing more intentional and easier to maintain.
From the 50s onwards, regular screening, mobility, balance, vision, and hearing can become increasingly important in supporting independence.
Planning for the future is not only financial
Most people understand the importance of planning financially for the future.
However, long-term wellbeing is also shaped by health, lifestyle, relationships, and resilience.
Good health cannot be guaranteed, but small steps taken consistently may help improve the chances of staying well and independent for longer.
Looking after your future self
Thinking about the future can sometimes feel abstract.
But the choices made today can influence the life a person is able to enjoy later.
Whether it is booking a health check, moving more regularly, improving sleep, or making time for connection, small actions can help support a healthier future.
For many people, planning ahead involves both health and financial wellbeing. Taking care of both can help create more confidence for the years ahead.
Disclaimer: Please note that the content provided in this article is intended as an overview and as general information only. While care is taken to ensure accuracy and reliability, the information provided is subject to continuous change and may not reflect current developments or address your situation. Before making any decisions based on the information provided in this article, please use your discretion and seek independent guidance.