The percentage of older people living alone also differed by age. The transition to living alone occurs mainly because one partner dies. Of those aged 95 and over, the proportion of lone persons decreased, reflecting that many people live with their adult children or in health establishments by this age. How older Australians use their time In general, today's older people are healthier, have greater physical and financial independence than earlier generations, and have time for a range of activities not previously practicable. Retirement from the paid workforce and a change in other commitments means that older people's time use also differs substantially from time use in younger age groups.
Older people devote few hours to employment or education activities.
Much of this time comprised housework tasks such as washing, ironing, cleaning and tidying up. Time available for leisure is relatively high for older people because of low levels of labour force participation. Much of this time was spent on passive leisure activities such as reading, watching television and relaxing. . Includes undescribed activities. A substantial contribution is made by older people to voluntary work and caring activities, including child care.