Nationwide survey to track Australians wellbeing during the COVID-19 pandemic

The GCMA is undertaking a range of advocacy, market development, partnerships, research and learning developments to improve the lives of older people.

This online survey is a part of a bigger six month study to understand how people are navigating the changes required for the coronavirus.

Researchers want to understand what is working for people, what elements they are finding challenging and what solutions they require, and then how this can be replicated for the older generation.

The research findings will be released to the public to help inform businesses, industries and governments and how they can provide products and services to benefit and improve the lives of older Australians.

Chief Executive of the GCMA, Julianne Parkinson, explains that GCMA is committed to improving the lives of older Australians which is why it is "more important than ever for companies and organisations to understand the needs and wants of older people".

Ms Parkinson says, “Many people are experiencing challenges during this unprecedented period of social distancing and we would like to build a deep understanding of the key changes that could make a difference for people.

“Mapping people’s experiences, including their sense of anxiety, loneliness, challenges and changes to their daily routines and technology use, will provide important insights around how people are responding. We also expect that there are some things people are finding are working well and this survey will enable us to capture that too.

“As older people are being strongly advised by the Federal Government to remain in their own homes during the coronavirus pandemic, the GCMA is encouraging all companies, especially those delivering goods and services to people’s homes, whether that be physically or digitally, to consult with their customers to better understand how to meet their needs through this unprecedented time.

“Older people are innovative and resilient with a wealth of lived experience. They will make the best of this situation, however, undoubtedly there will also be difficult times and the more that all of us, individuals, businesses and organisations, can empower older people during this pandemic the better.”

The GCMA is encouraging as many Australians as possible to take part in this research so they develop their research and inform long term changes that will benefit the country's elderly.

To take the COVID-19 15 minute survey, head to the Global Centre for Modern Ageing website. People aged over 18 are encouraged to participate in the survey.

For more information, visit the Aged Care Guide's COVID-19 update page. 

Do you have any questions about the coronavirus that you want answered? Tell us in the comments below or email journalist@dps.com.au.