Austria continues to lag behind many EU countries when it comes to the quality of life for its older population, according to a study by the Medical University of Vienna.

Despite improvements in areas such as income, education and access to social support, the number of years lived in good health in Austria has stagnated since 2008. As of 2021, the average number of healthy years in Austria was lower than the EU average, with women reporting 61.3 years and men 61.5 years in good health, compared to 64.2 years and 63.1 years, respectively, across the EU.

The study, which tracked the development of quality of life for older people in Austria over more than a decade, analysed data from 10,056 adults aged 65 and older.

It also highlighted significant regional disparities, with people in Austria’s western regions, such as Tyrol and Vorarlberg, reporting a higher quality of life than those in the east, including Vienna.

Younger seniors, those with higher incomes or education, also report a notably higher quality of life. In contrast, older individuals, those with lower incomes, and those suffering from chronic illnesses are particularly disadvantaged.

One key finding was the significant role socio-economic factors play in quality of life. “This shows that improving socio-economic conditions, particularly for women who typically receive lower pensions in Austria, could greatly enhance the quality of life for older people,” said Richard Felsinger, the lead author of the study.

The findings could pave the way for reform and political action aimed at improving quality of life in old age, Felsinger added. “Our analysis provides a solid foundation for tailored measures by policymakers, ensuring that older people not only live longer but also healthier and more fulfilling lives.”