Sydney Centenarian Study

Project Outlines and Aims

We are studying the health of people aged 95 years and above. The goal of our research is to better understand the physical and mental health of people in this category to assist health care providers in supplying the right information to people in this group.

Why do we want to study people in this age group?

This group had the largest population increase in Australia between 1991 and 2001. With this increase comes different challenges to the health system as it tries to meet people’s needs. Research is needed to assist the public health system better plan for the future and may assist younger people make better lifestyle choices. This group represents a unique population that can inform us about ageing well; factors that contribute to longevity; and the course of ageing after 95.

What does the assessment involve?

Comprehensive examinations of physical, psychological, and cognitive (thinking abilities) status are all included in our assessment.

The initial assessment will take about an hour and a half and will involve talking with a research psychologist asking about your general health and thinking. At this time the research psychologist will also discuss with you the possibility of you participating in further assessments. All assessments take place in the comfort of your own home or residential aged care facility, or at our offices in Randwick.

Our assessments are at no cost to you and any information we gain about your health will be available to you and your GP.

Potential Participants

We would like to assess any individual aged 95 years and above. It does not matter if the person has trouble with their memory, hearing or vision, or cannot get around easily, we are interested in understanding a whole range of abilities or problems in this age group. It also does not matter if the person is living in their home or in a nursing home.

At present we are recruiting participants using the electoral roll* and community volunteers.

If you or someone you know is in this age group and would like to participate, please contact us using the contact details at the top right of this web page.

Staff

Dr Charlene Levitan
Dr Melissa Slavin
Prof Perminder Sachdev
Prof Henry Brodaty
Ms Mamta Sidhu