Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe

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Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe

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 individuals aged 50 or older. The survey aims to provide high-quality data to support research on the challenges and opportunities of population ageing in Europe.

History

SHARE was initiated in 2004 and has since grown to include data from over 27 European countries. The survey is coordinated by the Munich Center for the Economics of Aging (MEA) at the Max Planck Institute for Social Law and Social Policy.

Objectives

The primary objectives of SHARE are to:

• Collect and provide data on the health, socio-economic status, and social and family networks of older Europeans.
• Facilitate research on the effects of ageing on individuals and societies.
• Support evidence-based policy-making in the areas of health, social security, and labour market policies.

Methodology

SHARE employs a longitudinal design, interviewing the same individuals every two years. The survey covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Physical health and mental health
• Economic status, including income, wealth, and consumption
• Employment and retirement
• Social networks and social support
• Cognitive function and mental health
• Health care utilization and insurance

Data Collection

Data collection is conducted through face-to-face interviews using computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) technology. The survey also includes physical measurements and biomarkers to provide objective health data.

Impact

SHARE data has been widely used in academic research, contributing to numerous studies on ageing, health, and retirement. The findings from SHARE have informed policy decisions at both national and European levels.

Participating Countries

As of the latest wave, SHARE includes data from the following countries:

• Austria
• Belgium
• Croatia
• Czech Republic
• Denmark
• Estonia
• France
• Germany
• Greece
• Hungary
• Ireland
• Israel
• Italy
• Luxembourg
• Netherlands
• Poland
• Portugal
• Slovenia
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland

See Also

• European Social Survey
• Health and Retirement Study
• Longitudinal Study of Ageing