Southampton researchers examine our ageing society

Issues surrounding getting older in the 21st century are being examined in depth at the University of Southampton.

The Centre for Research on Ageing is an international and multi-disciplinary centre examining key issues in ageing and the lifecourse to inform policy and debate at both national and local level. These include resources in old age such as pensions, inequalities, diversity, health, social care, quality of life and quality of death.

It is headed by Professor Maria Evandrou from the School of Social Sciences.

"Older people are a very diverse group. Some may be poor and in ill-health but others will be active and healthy with many hobbies and interests and enough money to live well," said Professor Evandrou. "We need to challenge assumptions about elderly people if we are to understand what the future has in store for us."

Research at the centre involves the use of dynamic simulation modelling software, complex large-scale datasets and other innovative methodologies.

Pensions Commissioner Professor John Hills will be launching the new Centre at a public lecture on Tuesday 17 January at the Turner Sims Concert Hall on the University's Highfield campus. The title is 'Debating the future of pensions: Where now after the Pension Commission's report?' It starts at 5.30pm and admission is free with no tickets required.