Big Data and Better Ageing Research Group
We use large‑scale health and social data to understand ageing, model health trajectories, and support equitable, person‑centred care for older adults in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Why big data matters for ageing
New Zealand’s linked health datasets provide a unique opportunity to study how people age, how health changes over time, and what supports help older adults to live well. The National Health Index enables secure, anonymised linkage across multiple data sources, allowing researchers to follow health trajectories and understand patterns of frailty, multimorbidity, and functional decline.
Our work draws on comprehensive assessments such as interRAI, alongside national health and social datasets, to generate insights that help improve care, planning, and policy for ageing populations.
Visit the interRAI website for more information
What we focus on
- Identifying early indicators of risk and functional decline
- Modelling long‑term health and social outcomes
- Understanding dementia, multimorbidity, and ageing in place
- Examining system‑level factors that shape wellbeing and equity
- Supporting responsible, transparent, and ethical use of health data
Explore our work
- About us — our mission, values, and long‑term vision
- Our research — current projects and areas of expertise
- Our people — the researchers behind the work
- News & events — updates and activities
- Contact us — how to get in touch