Health in midlife

Most Canadians enjoy good health in the middle years, although, not surprisingly, health declines with age.

The prevalence of several chronic conditions and activity limitations due to a health problem has declined for those aged 45 to 64 over the past 20 years. At the same time, the prevalence of asthma and migraine headaches has increased for women aged 45 to 64; diabetes and asthma have increased among men in the same age group.

Lower levels of education and income are associated with an increased likelihood of a decline in health and with chronic illness.