What is our National Health Score?
Irish Life’s Health of the Nation research measures indicators of our nation’s health as they fluctuate year on year, providing a comprehensive picture of how physically, socially, and mentally healthy we are as a nation.
Our National Health Score
The various health indicators are scored out of 1,000 to provide a benchmark health score. Based on the research findings over the past number of years, Irish Life was able to determine the Health Score of the nation has fallen from 549 in 2019 to 537 in 2020 and 528 in 2022, mainly due to:
- Since Covid-19, the number of people describing themselves as feeling lonely or isolated has almost doubled (increasing from 19% to 34%), with 76% now reporting liking spending time alone, up from 48% in 2019.
- Exercise is decreasing while weight is continuing to increase.
- More than 1 in 4 of under 35s are evidenced as severely distressed, with females more likely to be evidenced as distressed.
- Almost half of respondents (47%) now say the most important aspect of their current role is work life balance - over double the amount (20%) who say salary is most important.
Commenting on the Health of the Nation research, Stacey Machesney, Head of Health and Wellbeing at Irish Life said: “The data shows a decrease in the average Health Score which is mainly driven by reduced physical activity. This is consistent with other research that also observed a reduction in physical activity following the measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Irish Life Wellbeing works with businesses to develop healthier workplaces with a suite of measurable wellbeing interventions that deliver insights and education around nutrition, exercise, and mental health. At a community level, we encourage and incentivise individuals and groups to engage in healthy lifestyle behaviours. In 2021, Irish Life launched the first MyLife/GAA Healthy Clubs Every Step Counts Challenge, a seven-week walking challenge created for GAA clubs and community members to support their health and wellbeing. The challenge has hit upon a winning formula, engaging community through fun dynamic group challenges and rewards, and transforming lifestyle and health outcomes.”
The Good News - MyLife's Health of the Nation Challenge
Since its launch in 2019, MyLife has motivated more than 150,000 users through regular in-app challenges. Participants not only increase their activity physical activity levels but also feel an increased sense of connection with others and an improved satisfaction with their quality of life.
MyLife’s Health of the Nation Challenge is here to support our users to increase their activity levels and improve our nation’s Health Score. Join our latest challenge and feel the benefits of moving more.
Anyone who reaches our individual target of 100,000 steps by 16th August will be entered into our prize draw for a 2-night luxury stay at Finn Lough