Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe

A longitudinal study on health, ageing, and retirement in Europe

Logo of the SHARE project

The Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) is a multidisciplinary and cross-national panel database of microdata on health, socio-economic status, and social and family networks of more than 140,000 individuals aged 50 or older. The survey covers 28 European countries and Israel, providing a comprehensive view of the ageing process in Europe.

Overview

SHARE was initiated in 2004 to address the challenges posed by the ageing population in Europe. It is designed to provide high-quality data to researchers, policymakers, and the public to better understand the implications of ageing societies. The survey is conducted biennially and collects data through face-to-face interviews.

Objectives

The primary objectives of SHARE are to:

• Analyze the effects of health, economic, and social policies on the lives of older Europeans.
• Understand the interplay between health, economic status, and social networks.
• Provide data for cross-national comparisons and longitudinal studies.

Methodology

SHARE employs a multidisciplinary approach, integrating data from various domains such as health, economics, and social sciences. The survey uses a harmonized questionnaire across all participating countries, allowing for consistent and comparable data collection.

Data Collection

Data is collected through computer-assisted personal interviews (CAPI), which include questions on health status, economic conditions, and social networks. The survey also includes physical measurements and biomarkers to provide a comprehensive view of the participants' health.

Sample Design

The sample is drawn from the population aged 50 and older, with a focus on ensuring representativeness across different regions and socio-economic groups. The survey follows a longitudinal design, tracking the same individuals over time to observe changes and trends.

Key Findings

SHARE has provided valuable insights into various aspects of ageing, including:

• The impact of retirement on health and well-being.
• The role of social networks in supporting older adults.
• Differences in ageing experiences across European countries.

Participating Countries

Map of countries participating in SHARE

The survey includes a diverse range of countries, from Northern to Southern Europe, as well as Eastern and Western regions. This diversity allows for a comprehensive analysis of ageing across different cultural and policy contexts.

Impact and Applications

SHARE data is widely used by researchers and policymakers to inform decisions on health care, pension systems, and social services. The survey's findings have contributed to the development of policies aimed at improving the quality of life for older adults in Europe.

Related pages

• Ageing in the European Union
• Pensions in Europe
• Health care in Europe