This was considerably fewer, however, than the 1.5 million increase projected had disability rates not declined. Health Risks and Behaviors Social and behavioral aspects of life can make a difference in health and well-being. Most older people describe themselves as socially active, which may enhance their physical and emotional health. However, others report choices and behaviors, such as the failure to engage in physical activity or to keep up with vaccinations, that could interfere with health and independence. A large majority of older people report having social contact with friends, neighbors and relatives or engaging in activities, such as going out to restaurants.
Older people report being generally satisfied with health care quality and access.
Average costs have not risen steeply during the 1990s. The cost of health care and use of services is closely associated with age and institutional status, with higher expenditures incurred by the oldest Americans and those living in long-term care facilities. People age 85 and older are the most likely Americans to live in nursing homes. In 1997, only 11 people per 1,000 ages 65-74 lived in a nursing home, compared with 192 people per 1,000 among those age 85 and older. Approximately three-fourths of nursing home residents are women, roughly equal to their representation in the population age 85 and older.