Our research programs

Understanding the challenges and opportunities of ageing.

Population ageing is one of the most significant demographic changes of the modern era. Ageing research seeks to answer the important questions it raises about health, wellbeing, care and the systems that support an ageing population.

The goal is not simply to understand ageing. It is to develop knowledge that can be applied in ways that improve lives.

50

Years of ageing research

66

Researchers

56

Research projects

7

Research focus areas

OUR APPROACH

Research shaped by the realities of ageing in Australia.

We work alongside older people, carers, healthcare professionals, aged care providers, community organisations and government partners to generate evidence that informs practice, strengthens services and supports better decision-making.

Factors that contribute to healthy ageing
Conditions commonly associated with later life
Health and aged care systems, and broader social issues
Four older adults sitting together in a living room

FIVE RESEARCH PROGRAMS

What our programs focus on.

The five programs are broader groupings of our seven research focus areas. Each program draws on several of them.

Prevention

Healthy ageing, prevention and early intervention

Physical activity, healthy ageing behaviours, prevention strategies and early intervention programs that reduce the impact of age-related decline and support people to remain active, connected and engaged.

Conditions

Geriatric syndromes and conditions of ageing

Dementia, frailty, falls, chronic pain and mobility limitations. Our work focuses on understanding these conditions and developing evidence-based approaches that improve outcomes.

Carers

Supporting paid and unpaid carers

How education, support services, workforce development and evidence-based resources strengthen the knowledge, confidence and wellbeing of carers.

Systems

Health and aged care systems

Evaluations, models of care, quality improvement, health economics, technology, and equity and access, all working towards better care for older Australians.

Society

Societal issues: ageism and elder abuse

Evidence on ageism, elder abuse, social inclusion, equity and the rights of older people. This work contributes to safer, more inclusive communities.

WHERE PROGRAMS MEET PRACTICE

Evidence applied in ways that improve lives.

Across all five programs, findings flow into healthcare practice, aged care improvement, professional education, public policy and community programs.