[Health aspects in adults over 80 with independent community life: an Australian perspective]

This qualitative study describes the factors that influence the health care practices of 14 elderly persons living independently in Perth, Western Australia. Through in-depth interviews with the participants, the health care practices people were explored. Five distinct themes emerged from the data. These themes were the past time, an active life, nutrition, getting old, economical security and personal satisfaction. This study provides an insight into the life of older adults and the problems associated with ageing.