Austrian Interdisdiciplary Study on the Oldest Old (OEIHS)

The Austrian Interdisciplinary Study on the Oldest Old (ÖIHS – as per the acronym in German) investigates health as well as living conditions and support situation of Austrian individuals aged 80 and older – a group of citizens about whom only limited information existed at the beginning of this longitudinal study, despite increasing relevance to demographics and public health.

The data collected is of practical and decision-making relevance and will support the federal, regional and local authorities as well as private service providers when it comes to:

1. Planning demand-oriented and needs-based supply and social structures for intra- and extramural care
2. Evaluating the efficiency of activities in the social service and healthcare sector and in health promotion
3. Comparing the situation in Austria within the international context (and to other European and international studies on people aged 80+)
4. Reaching the investigated age group adequately and in a convincing manner and providing appropriate options for a life characterised by self-determination, participation and improved health.