Health, fitness, and life satisfaction in retired teachers

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to describe the health, fitness, and life satisfaction of retired teachers in Thunder Bay. Forty retired teachers (24 women, 16 men) aged 55 to 70 years participated in the study. Fitness level, physical activity participation, and lifestyle habits were measured according to the protocol of The Canadian Physical Activity, Fitness, and Lifestyle Appraisal (CPAFLA), and compared to Estimated Health Benefit Zones. Fitness level was also compared to norms from the 1981 Canada Fitness Survey (CFS). Over 50% of the sample scored Good or higher on all fitness measures, and on measures of physical activity participation and lifestyle habits, over 90% scored in this range. Comparisons to the CFS revealed average fitness levels, not markedly different from the general Canadian population. Levels of high density lipoproteins (HDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL), and triglycerides, as well as the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL were in a range designated as healthy or desirable for at least 50% of the sample. Self-report measures indicated a high level of satisfaction with retirement life, and extremely healthy lifestyle behaviours. Both perceived health and life satisfaction were significantly correlated with aerobic fitness, indicating possible benefits of maintaining a physically active lifestyle during retirement. Retired teachers were found to be in good physical health, possess exceptionally healthy behaviours with respect to lifestyle and physical activity participation, and be extremely satisfied with retirement life.