Seniors in Norway 2010

In chapter one, we examine on how the population has changed since the previous publication. The biggest change in recent years is due to increased immigration. In Norway, however the main result is that the population gets older.

Chapter two focuses on income, wealth and the consumption side of the living conditions of seniors. Among Norwegian households, no one has had such an income development in recent years as older seniors. How you live and the conditions the local community, is important for the general well-being.

Chapter three on housing and community covers seniors’ situation in this area. The degree of activity in everyday life is important for wellbeing.

Chapter four about time use and leisure activities highlights this area. Activity in daily life also includes being interested in politics and general social issues.

Chapter five on political participation focuses on this. Participation in elections is very high among seniors, but falls a bit when they pass 80 years. Participation in work is and has been a central part of life for most people. Employment drops significantly after age 62, and senior women work largely part time, see Chapter six. Having good health is a central dimension of living conditions.

Chapter seven addresses this dimension. Healthier living habits, such as less smoking and more exercise, are probably contributing to a small improvement in health among the elderly over the last ten years. Not everyone is in good health, and for those concerned, the provision of care is important.

Chapter eight on needs for assistance and supply of services emphasize this. Many elderly people live with diseases that affect everyday life, and as many as before, need help to manage in everyday life. A particular group among seniors in the population is immigrants. With a background and history that differ from ethnic Norwegian, they have a unique position. Chapter nine treats this. Older immigrants are struggling with more multiple health problems than the general population. Socializing is important for the well-being.

Chapter ten on social relations illuminate this area. Compared with others, seniors often have contact with family members, and even if they do not meet friends as often as younger adults, six out of ten seniors have weekly contact with friends. Most elderly people have improved their living conditions. The economy has improved; better health leads to more people live longer. Many seniors have an active life with high organizational participation and use of cultural and recreational offers. Most people live in a good community, with good housing, low exposure to noise and pollution. Improved health and low birth rates in the population will however represent a challenge for the welfare community. This will lead to higher costs for pensions and health care services. It not only be a challenge for the financing of welfare services, but will also contribute to increased demand for labour in the health care sector.