Research Underway

A longitudinal study on the impact of home and neighbourhood on the health and well being of older adults

Investigators: 

Professor John Beard, Professor Julie Byles, Associate Professor Cate D’Este, Dr Lynette McKenzie, Dr Lynette Parkinson, Professor Sally Redman (PI) and Dr Anna Williamson

Project aim(s): 

The aims of this research are twofold:

  • To assess the association between home and neighbourhood characteristics and current and future physical and mental health. This study will assess the safety and access features of the homes and neighbourhoods of a sample of people aged 70-74 years living in NSW. It will follow-up participants over three years collecting data on health status and on changes to the home and area of residence will be collected each year. These data will be analysed to determine the extent to which home and neighbourhood characteristics impact on: (i) quality of life and activities of daily living; (ii) physical capacity; (iii) physical activity and social participation; (iv) injury; (v) health care use.

  • To understand people’s response to their changing needs for supportive built environments as they age. Qualitative and quantitative descriptive data will be gathered to assess people’s readiness to adapt their housing to meet changing physical and social needs as they age. Case studies will be used to explore the factors influencing changes (home adaptation or moving residence), types of changes made, and the perceived costs and benefits of these changes. Costs will include social and financial costs, and will vary according to asset and income balance and social circumstances.

Project status: 

Application approved March 2007

Awaiting funding

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