Integrative Analysis of Longitudinal Studies on Aging (IALSA)

Integrative Analysis of Longitudinal Studies of Aging (IALSA). The IALSA research network is a collaborative research infrastructure for coordinated interdisciplinary, cross-national research aimed at the integrative understanding of within-person aging-related changes in health and cognition. The (IALSA) network is currently comprised of over 25 longitudinal studies on aging, spanning eight countries, with a combined sample size of approximately 70,000 individuals. These studies represent a mix of population representative, volunteer, and special population samples. Within the network, data have been collected on individuals from birth to over 100 (focus on 50+), with birth cohorts ranging from 1880 to 1980 (mainly 1900-1920), and historical periods from 1946 to the present. Between-occasion intervals range from 6 months to 17 years (the majority 1-5 years), with between 2 and 32 (mainly 3-5) measurement occasions spanning 4 to 48 years of within-person assessment.

The IALSA network serves as a resource for the evaluation of cutting-edge research questions on aging, health, cognition, and personality and the application of best statistical methods for inference to aging individuals and defined populations, including analysis with attrition and mortality. Network activities will encourage the examination of cross-cultural and cross-cohort effects and provide a strong basis for synthesizing evidence across longitudinal studies. Analysis of cognitive outcomes is currently funded by NIH/NIA R01AG026453-01 (9/15/07 - 8/31/12).

If you are interested in joining this network, please email Scott Hofer (smhofer@uvic.ca).