The effect of health behavior change on self-rated health across the adult life course: A longitudinal cohort study

Objective: While it is clear that health behaviors are related to self-rated health (SRH), it is less clear if maintaining positive behaviors, or improving, can protect SRH over time. Method: SRH trajectories were modeled in a large representative Australian sample (n. =7485 at baseline), of three age cohorts (20-24, 40-44 and 60-64. years at baseline; 1999, 2000 & 2001 respectively), over an 8. year period. Change in smoking, alcohol consumption and physical activity on SRH trajectories were examined, controlling for demographic, physical and mental health factors. Results: SRH became poorer over time across the sample. Being a non-smoker was associated with more positive SRH levels across all groups. Maintaining or increasing moderate physical activity was associated with less decline in SRH. Conclusions: Findings highlight the benefits of positive health behaviors, particularly performing regular physical activity over time, for reducing the risk of subjective health becoming poorer across the adult life course.