On 1 December, 2009 the Research Data Centre of the German Ageing Survey (FDZ-DEAS) commenced work at the German Centre of Gerontology (DZA). Its aim is to provide access to the microdata of the German Ageing Survey (DEAS). In so doing, the DZA is responding to suggestions made by the Science Council and the German Council for Social and Economic Data (RatSWD). The DZA has applied for funding for the initial project phase and plans to set up the Research Data Center as an integral part of the DZA.
The German Ageing Survey (DEAS) is a nationwide representative cross-sectional and longitudinal survey of the German population aged over 40. It is funded by the Federal Ministry for Family Affairs, Senior Citizens, Women and Youth (BMFSFJ). Currently, three survey waves for the years 1996, 2002, and 2008 are available. In each survey year, a nationally representative sample is drawn and subsequently followed up. The participants are questioned in detail on their objective and subjective living situation. In addition, tests of cognitive capability and physical functioning are applied.
The DEAS has a cohort-sequential longitudinal design, a broad thematic spectrum, national representativity with a comparatively large number of cases and a relatively long observation period, and is hence a unique German database for interdisciplinary research on the living conditions and life courses as well as the subjective perception and scheme of life of ageing and older individuals. Information on the samples and the survey instruments can be found in the documentation (English version currently for wave II only).
The FDZ-DEAS provides access to the data obtained by the survey to academics engaged on non-commercial research and advises users. The FDZ-DEAS offers advice on planning the use of and access to the data and facilitates application and authorisation procedures.
