Data collection on housing conditions in ageing cohort studies: a meta-research study

Abstract

Objectives To identify the availability and describe measurement methods of housing conditions in ageing cohort studies across Oceania, and to highlight data and measurement gaps. Methods For this meta-research study, ageing cohort studies in Oceania were identified using an online cohort repository, which includes ageing cohort studies across the globe (search finalized January 2022), along with an updated PubMed search (to October 2024). Availability and measurement methods for sixteen subdomains of housing conditions were considered across four main domains of internal housing conditions, neighbourhood/outdoor environment, perceived housing conditions, and other (tenure, affordability, stability, location). Results Of 25 ageing cohort studies identified, 21 were from Australia and four from New Zealand; no ageing cohort studies were identified from other Oceanic countries. All included studies captured at least one housing-related measure—most commonly in the subdomains of housing/dwelling type, housing profile, or housing tenure. Other housing conditions subdomains were often overlooked, with only 4% to 24% of included studies assessing housing design, facilities, problems, transportation, satisfaction, safety perception, location, and affordability, while no studies measured housing quality or perceived control and autonomy. Conclusions This study highlights the lack of comprehensive housing measures in ageing cohort studies in Australia and New Zealand, limiting our understanding of how housing conditions impact health and well-being of older adults. It is therefore crucial to integrate standardized and comprehensive housing measures into cohort studies, particularly in the context of population ageing and climate change. The absence of cohort studies from other countries in Oceania also highlights a significant data equity issue.