The overall story revealed in this wave’s survey results is more positive than the past two waves of the State of the Older Nation, noting that the 2021 wave was conducted during the height of the COVID pandemic and the late 2022-early 2023 wave when Australians were still experiencing the effects of the pandemic.
However, while there are signs of optimism, the survey findings also show that not all older Australians share this positive experience and outlook.
Issues including pervasive ageism, financial insecurity and poverty, low confidence in using technology, and difficulty accessing essential services undermine quality of life for many older Australians.
The report reinforces the need for government, employers, and service providers to recognise and value the individual circumstances, needs and interests of all older Australians.