136.6
Integrating Datasets Supporting Ageing Populations and Workforces
The project objective is to assemble an integrated dataset that can inform interventions linked with population-level health goals of supporting the social determinants of health, well-being and ‘active’ ageing. It aims to build a population-level dataset analysed by age and gender which aligns workforce interventions with these population-level goals. The dataset links the Finnish Workability multidimensional theoretical framework, consisting of health and well-being, competence, values and attitudes and workplace structures, to contextual enabling influences of the ‘Liveability’ theoretical framework, including transport, housing, and social infrastructure. The project formed an aged care employment demonstrator in two large metropolitan regions of the Victorian Health Department.
Methods
In Stage 1 a consultation was conducted with regional health and aged care stakeholders to identify critical population-level vulnerabilities. In Stage 2 the Australian Urban Infrastructure Research Network geospatial modelling tool was used to collect population-level data linked with the theoretical frameworks. Demographic data from the Australian census and community indicators sources were analysed at multiple levels of granularity including micro-level data. Demand-side ageing vulnerabilities and supply-side ageing workforce challenges were linked. In Stage 3, interventions based on identified social epidemiological vulnerabilities and environmental contextual influences were implemented in collaboration with regional stakeholders.
Results
The project assembled an integrated dataset consisting of population-level data to explain dynamic demographic and socio-economic challenges as the basis for planning responses. Retaining the older aged care workforce in an environment of escalating demand aligned with aged care supply emerged as a critical problem. Population-level intersectionalities identified age and gendered patterns of social and economic participation, housing, care requirements and safety concerns. Workforce retention vulnerabilities identified included care responsibilities, lack of flexibility and retirement pathways. Thus, integrated social epidemiological datasets linked with conceptual frameworks both enabled and demonstrated a program of interventions supporting ageing populations and workforces.