Good news for advancing Baby Boomers, increasing in age does not necessarily cause a reduction in the quality of life, researchers have found that in some cases it can even improve it. 

Research published in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, outlines how investigators looked at indicators of the quality of life, and discovered that in England it is above average between the ages of 50 and 84, and in some cases increases compared with earlier years. 

Dr. Gopal Netuveli from Imperial College London, and lead researcher, says, “Although many worry that old age and retirement could be a time of hardship, this study shows that for many their quality of life actually improves as they get older. In particular, social engagement such as volunteering can significantly improve quality of life, even in very old age." 

The researchers found that factors such as a long standing illness, difficulties in moving about and carrying on with every day activities, depression or financial difficulties can all reduce the quality of life. 

However, factors such as trusting relationships with friends and family, frequent contact with friends and living in a good, safe neighborhood were all found to increase the quality of life. 

Professor David Blane, from Imperial College London says, "An increasingly aging population has raised the possibility of a 'long and morbid winter' for many old people, and a potential problem for national economies with more people to support than there are people to work.''

He continues spreading the good word to soon to be retirees, "However this study indicates that many of the problems associated with old age may be compressed to the last few years and people are able to lead a fulfilling life after retirement."