The National Seniors Social Survey (NSSS) is a significant research initiative conducted by National Seniors Australia. It serves as an annual snapshot of the well-being, views, and experiences of older Australians. The survey is a crucial tool for understanding the issues that matter most to people aged 50 and over, informing advocacy efforts and policy discussions.
Purpose and Scope
The primary purpose of the NSSS is to gather comprehensive data on the lives of seniors in Australia. This includes their perspectives on lifestyle, health, financial matters, and social issues. The survey aims to provide valuable insights to both government and policy makers, ensuring the voices of older Australians are heard and considered in decision-making processes. This is a crucial input for the National Seniors advocacy work.
Survey Methodology
The NSSS is an online survey open to all Australian residents aged 50 and above. Participation is voluntary, and responses remain anonymous, ensuring the privacy of individuals. The survey typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes to complete, and respondents can save their progress and return at a later time.
History and Frequency
The NSSS has been conducted annually since 2012, with the exception of 2020. Each iteration of the survey, known as a ‘wave’, focuses on specific areas of interest, providing a longitudinal view of changes over time; The 2012 survey was ‘wave 1’ and each year since then it has been conducted with the exception of 2020. Reports are based on these surveys except for some COVID themed reports.
Key Topics Covered
The NSSS covers a wide range of topics, including⁚
- Financial well-being and cost of living
- Health and lifestyle
- Social inclusion and community engagement
- Age discrimination and employment
- Experiences with government services
Impact and Influence
The findings from the NSSS directly influence the advocacy work of National Seniors Australia. The data provides evidence-based support for campaigns aimed at improving the quality of life for older Australians. Additionally, the research is used to inform policy discussions and to raise awareness of issues impacting the senior community.
Recent Surveys
The 11th NSSS was conducted in 2023 and focused on cost of living. The 12th NSSS in 2024, had some focused topic areas and the 2024 survey is in planning. The data from each survey is used for research reports.
Participation
National Seniors Australia encourages all Australians aged 50 and over to participate in the NSSS each year. By sharing their experiences, seniors contribute to a better understanding of their needs and help to shape a more inclusive and supportive society.
Ethical Procedures
National Seniors Australia adheres to strict ethical procedures in conducting the NSSS. This includes ensuring the anonymity of participants, the secure storage of data, and transparency in how the information is used.
The NSSS is a vital tool for understanding the experiences of older Australians and advocating for their needs. The information is also used for planning future research topics and areas of interest.