Qualitative Study on Health, Health-Related Behaviors, and Risk Factors in People Aged 70-79 in Two Spanish Cities: Seville and Lleida

It is expected that the elderly population will continue to increase in contemporary societies due to the rise in longevity. However, increased longevity is not associated with better health. The aim of this research is to explore the lifestyle habits and health risk factors of people aged 70-79 living in Seville and Lleida. In this qualitative research, we conducted focus groups and semi-structured interviews as data collection instruments. Between October 2023 and April 2024, 16 interviews and 8 focus groups were conducted. The sample consisted of 73 people. The average age of the participants in the focus groups was 73.8 years, while the average age of those interviewed was 75.3. The participants' eating habits followed certain uniform patterns influenced by their relationships with family members. Women tend to cook traditional meals and freeze them. This strategy of cooking in large quantities was used to save time at home and have prepared food available, but also to share part of the food with family members. Regarding physical activity, participants based it on three pillars: group activities organized by public centers, gyms, and walk. In terms of alcohol consumption, we identified two trends: the normalization of daily consumption and the reduction of consumption due to health issues. However, while the consumption of wine and beer seems to be well-regarded and socially accepted, the consumption of distilled alcohol is not. Finally, there was some awareness of the harmful effects of smoking, which has led many older adults to quit smoking. This awareness was often due to personal health issues or observing the effects on those close to them (friends, family, spouses, etc.). The study of risk factors and lifestyle habits is important for understanding behaviors that negatively impact health, adapting public policies, and promoting preventive health programs to ensure healthy aging.