The Australian Longitudinal Study of Ageing: Wave 1, 1992

Components of this first wave (1992-1993) of the Australian Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ALSA) included a comprehensive personal interview conducted via Computer-Assisted Personal Interview instruments, a home-based assessment of physiological functions, self-completed questionnaires (e.g. self-report of conditions, symptoms), and additional clinical studies. Personal interviews were carried out at this first wave for 2,087 participants and clinical assessments were obtained for 1,620 of the participants. Clinical measurements included anthropometry, grip strength, blood pressure, hearing, sight, psychological testing and performance-based measures of physical function. Blood samples were also collected. Ancillary data have also been collected from secondary providers, including Domiciliary and Rehabilitation Services, Meals on Wheels, and The Royal District Nursing Society. Lists of ALSA participants are compared periodically with the agencies’ lists to determine the prevalence and incidence of receipt of services from these organisations.