© 2013 cota tasmania · 2013. 12. 9. · facing the future - a baseline profile on older...

FACING THE FUTURE - A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians 2

© 2013 COTA Tasmania

Westella, 181 Elizabeth Street

Hobart 7000

PH (03)6231 3265

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.cotatas.org.au

This report was researched and written by Karen Eyles, Research Fellow, Institute for Regional

Development, University of Tasmania, Linda Jamieson, Policy and Research Officer, COTA,

Soula Houndalas, Research Officer and Project Officer, COTA and Keree Rose, Project Officer – Positive

Ageing, COTA.

COTA prepared this report with funds from the Community Development Unit, Department of Premier

and Cabinet, Tasmania.


Minister Words

Minister’s message It is with great pleasure that I present Facing the Future – A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians which provides some valuable insights into the characteristics of our older Tasmanian population, aged 60 years and over. This is the first time that there has been such a collation of significant data for this population group in Tasmania.

The data provides a foundation to shape future directions for the Government in responding to population ageing in Tasmania. Importantly, the data is presented for whole-of-State, regions, and local government areas, providing a more comprehensive picture across this important population cohort.

In the next stage, the data will become accessible online in an interactive capacity. This will make it possible to better understand how the complexities of the multitude of factors impact on the everyday lives of older Tasmanians.

Generally, our older people are doing well; they report that they are leading healthy and active lives and are connected to and contributing to their communities. The data also highlights some key issues for older people such as age-related discrimination in the workforce; lower levels of household computer and Internet access; and for those more vulnerable and disadvantaged older people, the challenges of making ends meet.

The Profile forms the basis of the Inclusive Ageing: Tasmania 2012-2014 Strategy which identifies projects the Tasmanian Government has committed to over the three year period to benefit the lives of older Tasmanians. The baseline data provides an evidence base on which to continue our work as we strive to achieve a socially inclusive society.

Facing the Future – A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians provides us with the opportunity to strengthen collaboration across government to make the best use of this information.

Cassy O’COnnOr MPMinister for Community Development


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Foreword - CEO This major piece of research has been conducted by a team of people over 2012 and 2013 to provide

greater insight into older Tasmanians. COTA Tasmania (Council on the Ageing) is the leading voice for

older Tasmanians and as such it is timely and significant that as an organisation it can be involved in

such an important piece of work. The picture of an ageing Tasmania is not all ‘doom and gloom’; it is a

story of a dynamic State and society that can contribute to meaningful lives for older Tasmanians and

where likewise older Tasmanians can contribute, participate and remain socially connected.

Collection and reporting of data is by essence a dynamic process. No sooner than you collect and

publish, the world moves on and it changes the picture again. The team working on the profile have

found new data being published all the time and at times it is hard to ‘draw a line in the sand’ so to

speak. So this document should be viewed as a beginning in some ways. It builds on past

demographic work on older Tasmanians, but it is a beginning from the perspective of social inclusion.

This was the common thread throughout the project, to collect data and report on social inclusion of

older Tasmanians.

There are some clear patterns that appear through the profile:

Areas of Tasmania that have increasing populations of older people, both numerically and

proportionally;

Positive stories of social connection and participation by older Tasmanians;

High levels of older people caring for others;

Older people engaging in lifelong learning.

The reasons for increasing populations of older people, living in particular regions, is an area that

potentially more research can be done. What are the motivations for this? What is the extent and

influences on ‘ageing in place’ or is this migration because of needs for services? This research would

prove invaluable in informing planning mechanisms at all levels of government and service provision.

On a global stage, data recently released by HelpAge International in the Global AgeWatch Index,

shows Australia ranks 14th out of the 91 countries measured. Australia rates high (2nd) in life

expectancy at 60 years and also rates high in employment and educational attainment but is modest

(25th) in enabling environment and poor (57th) in income security.1

As a society that is facing an ageing population it is hoped that Tasmania values the opportunities and

wisdom that older people can contribute, and with consultation, move forward to a brighter future.

Sue Leitch

CEO COTA Tasmania

1 Global AgeWatch Index 2013 HelpAge International


Acknowledgements

The Council on the Ageing (COTA) Tasmania thanks all those who have made a contribution to this

report. FACING THE FUTURE - A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians 2013 provides a wealth of data on

older people, aged 60 years and over, who currently make up nearly 23% of the Tasmanian

population.

COTA acknowledges and appreciates the funding received from the Tasmanian Government to

research and develop this report.

COTA acknowledges and appreciates the contribution of the Building Evidence Project Working

Group, the membership of which is outlined in Appendix 1. In particular COTA acknowledges and

appreciates the significant contribution of Dr Peter Wilde, Honorary Research Associate from the

University of Tasmania. Dr Wilde’s insights, time, work and sense of humour are greatly appreciated

by COTA and were invaluable in the development of this report.

COTA appreciates the contribution of staff from Government departments and other organisations

that spent time collating, collecting and providing data to be included in the report.

COTA acknowledges and appreciates the significant contribution from Ms Karen Eyles, Research

Fellow from the Institute for Regional Development, University of Tasmania. Ms Eyles was

contracted as a demographer to assist COTA with statistical analysis and commentary. Her insight and

commitment to this project has exceeded COTA’s high expectations. Ms Eyles’ work with COTA in

developing this report has been invaluable and is greatly appreciated.

Finally, the significant editorial contribution made by Margaret Kelly, the Principal Liaison Officer –

Older Persons, Department of Premier and Cabinet is gratefully acknowledged.


Contents

Foreword - CEO ..................................................................................................................................... 5

Acknowledgements ............................................................................................................................... 7

Contents ............................................................................................................................................... 8

List of figures ....................................................................................................................................... 11

List of tables ........................................................................................................................................ 15

Executive summary ............................................................................................................................. 17

Recommendations .............................................................................................................................. 21

Background ......................................................................................................................................... 23

Introduction ........................................................................................................................................ 24

Data indicators ................................................................................................................................. 28

Data sources ..................................................................................................................................... 30

Data presentation ............................................................................................................................ 33

CHAPTER 1 Tasmania’s ageing population .......................................................................................... 35

Age and sex structure of the population ......................................................................................... 36

Life expectancy ................................................................................................................................. 38

Structure of Tasmania’s ageing population ..................................................................................... 39

Ageing in Tasmania’s regions and local government areas ............................................................. 42

Population projections ..................................................................................................................... 47

Population projections by region and local government area ........................................................ 52

Urban/rural location......................................................................................................................... 54

Residential mobility .......................................................................................................................... 55

Living arrangements ......................................................................................................................... 58

Marital status ................................................................................................................................... 58

Older Tasmanians living alone ......................................................................................................... 59

Older Tasmanians raising children ................................................................................................... 62

Cultural diversity .............................................................................................................................. 63

Key issues for older Tasmanians ...................................................................................................... 69

Socioeconomic status ....................................................................................................................... 70

Social inclusion and the risks presented by social exclusion ........................................................... 71

Social exclusion risk factors .............................................................................................................. 71


CHAPTER 2 Life’s basics ....................................................................................................................... 77

Income .............................................................................................................................................. 78

Housing ............................................................................................................................................. 81

Security ............................................................................................................................................. 90

CHAPTER 3 Accessibility ...................................................................................................................... 99

Transport ........................................................................................................................................ 100

Services ........................................................................................................................................... 103

Disability ......................................................................................................................................... 104

Aged Care ....................................................................................................................................... 109

CHAPTER 4 Connection and contribution .......................................................................................... 111

Family and community support ..................................................................................................... 112

Participation ................................................................................................................................... 114

Civic participation ........................................................................................................................... 122

Voluntary contribution ................................................................................................................... 130

CHAPTER 5 Lifelong learning ............................................................................................................. 137

Qualifications .................................................................................................................................. 137

Older adult learning ....................................................................................................................... 138

Literacy and numeracy ................................................................................................................... 141

Computer and internet use ............................................................................................................ 143

CHAPTER 6 Health and wellbeing ...................................................................................................... 147

Self assessed health ....................................................................................................................... 147

Risk factors for poor health ............................................................................................................ 149

Alcohol consumption ..................................................................................................................... 149

Chronic conditions .......................................................................................................................... 151

Neurodegenerative disorders ........................................................................................................ 152

Hospital admissions ........................................................................................................................ 154

Staying healthy – nutrition and sport ............................................................................................ 155

APPENDICES ...................................................................................................................................... 159

Appendix A – Building Evidence Project Working Group ............................................................... 160

Appendix B – Data tables ............................................................................................................... 161

Appendix C - COTA Have Your Say Postcard .................................................................................. 199

References ........................................................................................................................................ 200


List of figures

Figure 1 Tasmania – regions, 2011 Figure 2 Tasmania – Local Government Areas, 2011 ................... 34

Figure 2 Population structure by age and sex, Tasmania 1991-2011 ............................................................... 36

Figure 3 Population structure by age and sex, Australia 1991-2011 ................................................................. 37

Figure 4 Life expectancy at birth – males and females, Australia, 1910-2011 .................................................. 39

Figure 5 Age profile, Tasmania and Australia, 2011 ......................................................................................... 40

Figure 6 Ageing in Australian states and territories, 2001-2011 ....................................................................... 41

Figure 7 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) as a proportion of the population, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ................ 42

Figure 8 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) - % of population, 2011 ....................................................................... 43

Figure 9 Older Tasmanians – young old, mid old, older old – (% of population), Tasmanian regions, 2011 .... 44

Figure 10 Structural ageing – mean annual increase in the proportion of the population aged 65+ years (%pts),

2006-2011 .......................................................................................................................................................... 45

Figure 11 Numerical ageing – mean annual increase in the number of people aged 65+ years (%), 2006-2011+46

Figure 12 Observed and projected population aged 65+ years (%), Figure 13 Observed and projected

population aged 65+ years 2011-2030 (persons), 2011-2030 ............................................................. 47

Figure 14 Observed and projected population, Tasmania, 2001-2056 ............................................................ 49

Figure 15 Urban/rural settlement size (% of age group), Tasmania 2011 ........................................................ 55

Figure 16 Residential mobility – changed address in last 5 years (% of age group), Tasmanian regions, 2011 56

Figure 17 Residential mobility – changed address in last 5 years (% of people 65+ years), Tasmanian LGAs, 2011

........................................................................................................................................................................... 57

Figure 18 Length of time lived in current neighbourhood or LGA, older Tasmanians by region (60+ years), 2009

........................................................................................................................................................................... 58

Figure 19 Marital status of Tasmanians – young old; mid old; older old (% of age group), 2011 .................... 59

Figure 20 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) living alone, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ................................................. 60

Figure 21 Older Tasmanians living alone (% of people aged 65+ years), 2011 ................................................. 61

Figure 22 Older Tasmanians living alone – by settlement size, 2011 ................................................................ 62

Figure 23 Older Tasmanians raising children, Tasmanian regions, 2011 .......................................................... 63

Figure 24 Indigenous older Tasmanians (65+ years), Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 .................................................. 64

Figure 25 Region of birth – Tasmanians by age group (% of age group who stated a region of birth), 2011 .. 66

Figure 26 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) speaking a language other than English at home, LGAs, 2011 ........ 67

Figure 27 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) with poor English speaking skills, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ................ 68

Figure 28 Language spoken at home by older Tasmanians (65+ years) with poor or no spoken English

proficiency, 2011 ............................................................................................................................................... 68

Figure 29 Selected social exclusion risk factors - % of age group, Tasmania .................................................... 73

Figure 30 Tasmanians (by age group) living in households with government pensions & allowances as main

source of income, 2010 ...................................................................................................................................... 78

Figure 31 Individual weekly income of older Tasmanians (65+ years) by region (% of age group), 2011 ........ 79

Figure 32 Aged Pension recipients – Centrelink, Figure 33 Aged Pension recipients – Department of

Tasmania, 2006 – 2011 Veterans’ Affairs, Tasmania, 2006-2011 ................................................................ 81

Figure 34 Older Tasmanians – housing and accommodation (No.), 2011 ........................................................ 82

Figure 35 Older Tasmanians – housing and accommodation (%), 2011 ........................................................... 83

Figure 36 Family/household type of older Tasmanians (65+ years) counted at home on Census night, 2011 . 84

Figure 37 Mortgage repayment (monthly) – (% of persons 65+ years counted at home on Census night in

mortgagee households), 2011 ........................................................................................................................... 86


Figure 38 Rent (weekly) – (% of persons 65+ years counted at home on Census night in renting households),

2011 ................................................................................................................................................................... 87

Figure 39 Housing stress (% of persons 65+ years counted at home on Census night in renting or purchasing

households), 2011 .............................................................................................................................................. 88

Figure 40 Homelessness and other marginal housing by age group (persons), Tasmania, 2011 ..................... 89

Figure 41 Homelessness and other marginal housing category by age and sex (persons), Tasmania, 2011 ... 90

Figure 42 Financial insecurity and food insecurity, Tasmanians aged 60+ years, 2009 .................................... 91

Figure 43 Tasmanians (60+ years) – ability to raise $2,000 within 2 days in an emergency – single and multiple

person households, 2010 ................................................................................................................................... 91

Figure 44 Tasmanians (60+ years) – ability to raise $2,000 within 2 days in an emergency (%), Tasmanian

regions, 2009 ..................................................................................................................................................... 92

Figure 45 Household expenditure – goods and services ($) – older people households and all households,

Tasmania, 2009-10 ............................................................................................................................................ 93

Figure 46 Household expenditure – goods and services ($) – older people households and all households,

Tasmania, 2009-10 ............................................................................................................................................ 93

Figure 47 Household expenditure on medical care and health expenses ($) by age group, Tasmania, 2009-1094

Figure 48 Household expenditure on medical care and health expenses (% of total goods and services

expenditure) by age group, Tasmania, 2009-10 ................................................................................................ 95

Figure 49 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) living in disadvantaged areas (SA1s), 2011 ...................................... 97

Figure 50 Tasmanians living in households with no consumer debt (% of age group), 2010............................ 98

Figure 51 Tasmanians aged 65+ years holding a driver’s licence (%), 2013 ................................................... 101

Figure 52 Persons counted at home on Census night in households with no motor vehicles ......................... 102

Figure 53 Transport – can easily get to places needed, by age group, Tasmania, 2010 ................................. 102

Figure 54 Difficulty accessing service providers (% of age group), 2010 ......................................................... 103

Figure 55 Access to community services, older Tasmanians 60+ years (% of age group), 2009 ..................... 104

Figure 56 Need for assistance with core activities (% of age group) – Tasmania and Australia, 2011 ........... 105

Figure 57 Need for assistance with core activities (% of age group), 2011 ..................................................... 105

Figure 58 Persons who live alone and need assistance with core activities (% of persons needing assistance),

2011 ................................................................................................................................................................. 106

Figure 59 Disability status by age group (persons), Tasmania, 2009 .............................................................. 107

Figure 60 Disability status (% of age group), Tasmania 2009 ......................................................................... 107

Figure 61 Age groups 60+ years (% of persons with disability status), Tasmania 2009 .................................. 108

Figure 62 Persons with a disability needing more assistance with core activities than currently received,

Tasmania, 2009 ............................................................................................................................................... 108

Figure 63 Ability to get support in time of crisis from persons living outside the household (% of age group),

Tasmania 2010 ................................................................................................................................................ 112

Figure 64 Main sources of support in times of crisis (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010 ................................ 113

Figure 65 Sources of help when in need (% of 60+ years), Tasmanian regions, 2009 ..................................... 113

Figure 66 Provides support in time of crisis to relatives living outside the household (% of age group), Tasmania,

2010 ................................................................................................................................................................. 114

Figure 67 Labour force participation by age group, Tasmanian regions, 2011 .............................................. 115

Figure 68 Labour force status by age group, Tasmania, 2011 ........................................................................ 116

Figure 69 Wage and salary earners by age group, Tasmania, 2007-2010 ...................................................... 116

Figure 70 Age distribution of wage and salary earners, Tasmania, 2007-2010 .............................................. 117

Figure 71 Hours worked per week, Employed Tasmanians under and over 65 years of age, 2011 ................ 117

Figure 72 Industry of employment, Tasmanians under and over 65 years of age, 2011 ................................ 118

Figure 73 Employment type, Tasmanians under and over 65 years of age, 2011 ........................................... 119


Figure 74 Employment sector, Tasmanians under and over 65 years of age, 2011 ........................................ 119

Figure 75 Social contact – face to face contact with family or friends living outside the household (% of age

group), Tasmania, 2010 ................................................................................................................................... 121

Figure 76 Social contact – number of people spoken to yesterday, older Tasmanians (by region 60+ years), 2009

......................................................................................................................................................................... 122

Figure 77 Active participation in groups in last 12 months (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010 ...................... 122

Figure 78 Participation in a community event in past 6 months (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010.............. 123

Figure 79 Attended a local community event in the past 6 months, older Tasmanians by region (60+ years), 2009

......................................................................................................................................................................... 123

Figure 80 Attended at least one cultural and leisure venue in previous year (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010

......................................................................................................................................................................... 124

Figure 81 Types of cultural and leisure venues or events attended in previous year (% of age group), Tasmania,

2010 ................................................................................................................................................................. 125

Figure 82 Community trust – doctors, hospitals, police; Tasmanians (% of age group agreed or strongly agreed),

2010 ................................................................................................................................................................. 126

Figure 83 Feelings of safety, Tasmanians (% of age group feel safe or very safe), 2010 ................................ 126

Figure 84 Feel safe walking alone down your street after dark, older Tasmanians (60+ years), 2009 ........... 127

Figure 85 Feels able to have a say within community on important issues (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010129

Figure 86 Feel there are opportunities to have a real say on important issues, older Tasmanians by region (60+

years), 2009 ..................................................................................................................................................... 129

Figure 87 Feel valued by society, older Tasmanians by region (60+ years), 2009 ........................................... 130

Figure 88 Voluntary work for an organisation or group (in past 12 months) by age group, Tasmanian regions,

2011 ................................................................................................................................................................. 131

Figure 89 Unpaid care to a person with a disability (% of age group), Tasmanian regions, 2011 .................. 132

Figure 90 Unpaid care of others children (% of age group), Tasmanian regions, 2011 .................................. 133

Figure 91 Volunteering and caring (% of age group), Tasmania 2010 ............................................................ 134

Figure 92 Main types of unpaid assistance provided (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010 ............................... 135

Figure 93 Non-school qualifications (% of age group), Tasmanian regions, 2011 .......................................... 138

Figure 94 Older Tasmanians – students (% of age group), Tasmanian regions, 2011 .................................... 140

Figure 95 Older Tasmanian students, by age group, by type of educational institution (persons), Tasmanian

regions, 2011 ................................................................................................................................................... 140

Figure 96 Proportion of persons aged 15 – 74 with literacy Level 3 or above, by state or territory of usual

residence and sex ............................................................................................................................................. 142

Figure 97 Proportion of persons aged 15 – 74 with numeracy Level 3 or above, by state or territory of usual

residence and sex ............................................................................................................................................. 142

Figure 98 Use of information technology (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010 ................................................. 144

Figure 99 Type of household Internet connection (% of persons in private dwellings), Tasmania, 2011 ........ 145

Figure 100: Self assessed health for population age 60 years and over and total adult population, Tasmania

2009 ................................................................................................................................................................. 148

Figure 101 Good or better self-assessed health and no disability or long-term health condition (% of age group),

Tasmania, 2010 ............................................................................................................................................... 148

Figure 102: BMI status population aged 60 years and over and total adult population, Tasmania 2009 ...... 149

Figure 103: Alcohol related harm (caused by consuming 4-5 or more standard drinks on any single occasion),

population aged 60 years and over and total population, Tasmania 2009 .................................................... 150

Figure 104: Experienced at least one personal stressor in previous year (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010. 151

Figure 105: Prevalence of self-reported diagnosed health conditions, population 60 years and over, Tasmania

2009 ................................................................................................................................................................. 151


Figure 106 Estimated cases (persons aged 65+ years) – selected neurodegenerative disorders, Tasmanian

regions, 2011-2031 .......................................................................................................................................... 154

Figure 107 Hospital admissions by age group over 60 years, Tasmanian regions, 2010-11 ........................... 155

Figure 108 Adequate consumption of fruit and vegetables, population 60 years and over and total population,

Tasmania 2009 ................................................................................................................................................ 155

Figure 109 Participation in sport and physical recreation (% of age group), Tasmania, 2011-12 .................. 156

Figure 110 Sport and recreation – participation and attendance (% of age group), Tasmania, 2010 ............ 157

Figure 111 Regular participation in sport and physical recreation (3 or more times per week) by age group,

2011-12 ............................................................................................................................................................ 157

Figure 112 Participation in organised and non-organised sport and physical recreation by age group, Tasmania,

2011-12 ............................................................................................................................................................ 158


List of tables

Table 1 Number and Proportion - Older Tasmanians, ABS Census of Population and Housing ........................ 26

Table 2 Summary of indicators used in FACING THE FUTURE - A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians ......... 28

Table 3 Data sources – year, scope, sample size, and reliability ....................................................................... 31

Table 4 Tasmanian Population Health Survey – survey respondents aged 60+ years, by region and sex ........ 32

Table 5 Highlights of median ages in selected LGAs ......................................................................................... 43

Table 6 Structural and numerical ageing of the population – increase in number and proportion of people aged

65+ years, 2006-2011 ........................................................................................................................................ 50

Table 7 Tasmanian LGA population projections, young old; mid old; older old, 2020, 2030 ............................ 51

Table 8 LGAs ranked highest to lowest - projected (estimated) population growth ......................................... 53

Table 9 Indigenous status (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander), % of age group, 2011 ................................ 65

Table 10 Key issues for older Tasmanians as they age ...................................................................................... 69

Table 11 Selected social exclusion risk factors – persons, Tasmania ................................................................ 75

Table 12 Selected social exclusion risk factors – % of age group, Tasmania ..................................................... 76

Table 13 Older Tasmanians with individual weekly income less than $400, 2011 ............................................ 80

Table 14 Public housing tenants and applicants on waiting list, Tasmanians aged 60+ years, 2013 ............... 85

Table 15 Aged care services, by age, Tasmania 2011-2012 (persons) ............................................................ 109

Table 16 HACC instances of agency assistance, type of HACC services received, Tasmania, 2011-12............ 110

Table 17: Advocacy Tasmania Elder Abuse Helpline Data ............................................................................... 128

Table 18 Tasmanians aged 60+ years who participated in selected educational programs (numbers) ......... 139

Table 19 Prevalence of diagnosed depression/anxiety, persons 60+years by gender, self reported .............. 152

Table 20 Estimated cases (persons under and over 65 years) – selected neurodegenerative disorders, 2011-2031

......................................................................................................................................................................... 153

Table 21 Population by geographic location and age group, Tasmania, 2011 ............................................... 163

Table 22 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) – number and % of population, geographic area, 2011 .................. 164

Table 23 Distribution of older Tasmanians (65+ years), by geographic area, 2011 ........................................ 165

Table 24 Family/household type of older Tasmanians (65+ years), counted at home on Census night, 2011 166

Table 25 Marital status of older Tasmanians – young old; mid old; older old – Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ....... 167

Table 26 Older Tasmanians living alone – by age group, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 .......................................... 168

Table 27 Older Tasmanians living alone – % of age group, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ....................................... 168

Table 28 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) raising children*, 2011 ..................................................................... 169

Table 29 Indigenous status by age group, 2011 .............................................................................................. 170

Table 30 Region of birth – Tasmanians by age group, 2011 ........................................................................... 171

Table 31 Region of birth - % of age group (region of birth stated), Tasmania, 2011 ...................................... 171

Table 32 Older Tasmanians (65+ years) by language spoken at home, 2011 ................................................. 172

Table 33 Older Tasmanians - English speaking proficiency level for those who speak another language at home,

2011 ................................................................................................................................................................. 173

Table 34 Individual weekly income of older Tasmanians (65+ years), Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ....................... 174

Table 35 Household mortgage repayments ($ monthly) – (persons) for households where older Tasmanians (65+

years) were counted at home on Census night, 2011...................................................................................... 175

Table 36 Household rent payments ($ weekly) – (persons) for households where older Tasmanians (65+ years)

were counted at home on Census night, 2011 ................................................................................................ 176

Table 37 Housing stress (housing cost > 30% of household income) – persons and % of households where older

Tasmanians (65+ years) were counted at home on Census night, 2011 ......................................................... 177

Table 38 Disadvantaged areas* – number of SA1s and number of people, by Local Government Area, 2011178


Table 39 Labour force participation by age group – comparison between Tasmania and Australia, 2011.... 179

Table 40 Hours worked per week – employed Tasmanians, age groups over 45 years (persons), 2011 ........ 179

Table 41 Labour force status by age group (persons), 2011 ........................................................................... 180

Table 42 Industry of employment, by age groups over 45 years, Tasmanian regions, 2011 .......................... 181

Table 43 Employment type of employed Tasmanians, by age group over 45 years, Tasmanian regions, 2011182

Table 44 Employment sector of employed Tasmanians, by age group over 45 years, Tasmanian regions, 2011

......................................................................................................................................................................... 182

Table 45 Tenure of private dwellings, older Tasmanians (65+ years), 2011 ................................................... 183

Table 46 Location of private dwellings, older Tasmanians (65+ years), 2011 ................................................. 183

Table 47 Accommodation in non-private dwellings, by type, older Tasmanians (65+ years), 2011 ............... 185

Table 48 Homeless and marginally housed Tasmanians, under and over 65 years of age, 2011 ................... 186

Table 49 Number and proportion of Tasmanians aged 60+ years holding a driver’s licence, 2013 ............... 187

Table 50 Household access to motor vehicles, older Tasmanians by age group (persons*), 2011 ................. 188

Table 51 Needs assistance with core activities by age group (persons), 2011 ................................................ 189

Table 52 Persons needing assistance with core activities who live alone - by age group, 2011 ..................... 190

Table 53 Residential mobility by age group (persons), Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 .............................................. 191

Table 54 Voluntary work for an organisation or group (in past 12 months), persons by age group, Tasmanian

LGAs, 2011 ....................................................................................................................................................... 192

Table 55 Provided unpaid assistance to a person because of a disability, long illness or old age (in past 2 weeks),

persons by age group, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ................................................................................................ 193

Table 56 Spent time caring for children (under 15 years) other than own without pay (in past 2 weeks), persons

by age group, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ............................................................................................................. 194

Table 57 Non-school qualification, persons by age group, Tasmanian LGAs 2011 ......................................... 195

Table 58 Student status, older Tasmanians by age group, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ........................................ 196

Table 59 Household Internet access, older Tasmanians by age group, Tasmanian LGAs, 2011 ..................... 197

Table 60 Summary of selected characteristics from Tasmanian Population Health Survey (% of Tasmanians 60+

years), 2009 ..................................................................................................................................................... 198


Executive summary

Facing the Future – a Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians is a data-driven profile of older

Tasmanians.

The purpose of the profile is to:

identify and present a diversity of characteristics for current and future ageing in Tasmania;

profile and analyse older persons' social inclusion; and

increase the Tasmanian Government’s evidence base and its capacity to support a more inclusive

society for people of all ages.

The profile does not paint a complete picture, but it does provide an insight into the characteristics of

older Tasmanians arising from 2011 ABS Census data and other ABS surveys and reports (national

collections). In addition the profile has included Tasmanian data collected through the Tasmanian

Population Health Survey 2009. The collation and analysis of data is supported by COTA Tas with

extensive input from consultant demographers and ABS officials.

This report’s findings about Tasmanians aged 60+ years (in some instances 65+ years) refer to

population and population projections for each age group, local government area (LGA) and the 3

regions.

In 2011, 23% of the Tasmanian population was aged 60 years or more. In this dataset the age

parameter for older people is defined as 60 years or more. This covers a generation (usually

considered to be 25-30 years) and is greater than the combined years of childhood, adolescence and

young adult (0-25 years).

The older persons’ data is varied in terms of age, interests and abilities including physical, mental,

cognitive, emotional and functional health and wellbeing, and health service needs.

In light of the breadth and diversity of the older persons’ data - range this profile is presented in terms

of young old (60-74 years), mid old (75-84 years) and older old (85+ years). This enables comparison

between age cohorts and represents a generalised grouping.

Ultimately the data contained in this profile will be web-based. This will enable further analysis

reflecting the diversity of this large population group and will provide a more comprehensive picture

of older people living in Tasmania.

The introduction addresses overarching questions such as how old is ‘older’, refers to data indicators,

data sources and the validity of each data set. It presents the data sources and the range of data

indicators addressed, with reference to Tasmania as a whole; three major regions; and the 29 local

government areas.

Data insights and information arising from several datasets on older Tasmanians have been grouped

under six data indicators.


Chapter 1 – Tasmania’s ageing population covers the structure of Tasmania’s ageing population;

population projections by state region and local government area; living arrangements;

socioeconomic status; cultural diversity and key issues for older Tasmanians.

Between 2001 and 2011 Tasmania’s total population increased by 7.5%. Within the same 10 year

period Tasmanians aged 65+ years increased by 27% while those aged 80+ years increased by 35%.

Tasmania’s population is projected to increase slowly over the next few decades. However, the age

composition is projected to change considerably as a result of population ageing. In 2011 one in six

Tasmanians were aged 65+ years and, should recently calculated mid series projection trends hold

true, in 2020 it will be one in five and in 2030, it will be one in four Tasmanians aged 65 years or more.

Looking at more localised populations, should the projected trend hold, 12 of 29 LGAs will have 1 in 3

people aged 65 or more years.

Tasmania has the highest median age (40 years) of all states and territories, reflecting Tasmania’s high

proportion of people aged 65 years and over. In comparison, the Australian median age is 37 years.

Chapter 2 – Life’s basics recognises the need for everyone to be able to access food, shelter and

financial security. It profiles older Tasmanians’ capacity to make ends meet and includes data on

income, social disadvantage and debt, health and medical expenses, housing, including housing stress

and homelessness and a more generalised concept of socioeconomic disadvantage as applied to

disadvantaged areas defined by the ABS.

These variables are examined in such a way as to provide some insight into lives of vulnerable older

Tasmanians.

According to the 2011 Census data, the total proportion of Tasmanian households relying on income

support payments is 31% with 63.7% of the older population aged 65+ years living under the poverty

line of $400 per week.

Interestingly, the proportion of households with no consumer debt increased with age for all age

groups over 45 years, with a peak of 96% for Tasmanians aged 75+ years.

Chapter 3 – Accessibility presents data in relation to access to transport, (including the Transport

Access Scheme), disability and the need for assistance with core activities, and the relationship

between generalised access to services, the need for assistance with a particular focus on those who

are living alone, and access to and uptake of aged care services. These are key variables when

analysing people’s inclusion versus exclusion or participation versus isolation.

The majority of older Tasmanians remain in their own homes as they age. A total of 93% aged 65+

years live in their own home. This decreases to 79% for people aged 80+ years.

Approximately 36% of people aged 65+ years received an aged care service in 2011-12, increasing to

80% for Tasmanians aged for 80+ years. Provision of aged care services in the community supports

the desire of older people to remain in their own community with all the attendant health and

wellbeing benefits.


Chapter 4 – Connection and contribution explores the extent to which older Tasmanians have access

to family and community support, including the extent to which older Tasmanians feel supported

when in various crises. Data on types and extent of voluntary contributions, levels of civic

participation and trust, incidences and levels of elder abuse, and lastly feelings of safety and the

extent to which people feel valued by society are also included in this chapter.

Importantly, this section also acknowledges the issues associated with remaining in the paid

workforce including labour force status and participation, wage earners or self employed.

Labour force rates decrease with increasing age over the age of 54 years but this may not be due to

individual choice. It may reflect the common retirement window around the age of 65 years;

however, it may also be an indicator of age related discrimination. 67% of Australians aged between

54-65 years and 50% of those aged 65+ years report being turned down for a paid work position.

Nationally in 2011, the volunteering rate for people aged 65+ years was 20%. In Tasmania, the

volunteering rate was slightly higher at 22%, with the volunteering rate for the young old (65-74

years) being 27%. In this same group, 13% provided unpaid childcare and 14% provided unpaid care

for a person with a disability. The mid old and the older old age groups also made significant

contributions to volunteering and caring activities in the community.

Chapter 5 – Lifelong learning data highlights older Tasmanians’ qualifications, ongoing learning,

literacy and numeracy skills, and their access to current information technology.

Non-school qualifications declined with increasing age in Australia, Tasmania and all Tasmanian

regions. The proportion having qualifications was higher for all age groups in the South, than it was in

the North or North-West or for Tasmania as a whole. The proportion of qualified people in the older

age groups (65+ years) in the South was also higher than it was at a national level.

Generally older Australians have lower levels of literacy and numeracy than younger Australians. This

also applies to older people in Tasmania.

Tasmanians have lower levels of household access to the Internet than Australia as a whole. Older

Tasmanians (65+ years) were less likely to have household Internet access (45%) than Tasmanians less

than 65 years of age (82%), as well as less likely than older Australians aged 65+ years (51%).

Chapter 6 – Health and wellbeing explores many aspects of older people’s diverse needs, interests

and abilities. Self-assessed health is a key indicator that is set alongside health risk factors, chronic

conditions, neurodegenerative disorders and hospital admissions. A keeping healthy section includes

participation in sport and recreation activities and levels of fruit and vegetable consumption.

Tasmanians 60+ years generally reported very good health with more than three quarters self-

reporting either excellent/very good or good health (75.7%), and less than a quarter self-reporting

fair/poor health (23.8%).

The prevalence of chronic health conditions impacts significantly on a person’s ability to cope and

their functioning capacity. For Tasmanians aged 60+ years and over, arthritis was the most frequently

reported diagnosed health condition (52.8%).


Participation in organised sport and physical recreation decreases with increasing age, from 18 years.

In contrast, participation in non-organised sport and physical recreation remains fairly constant at

around 60% from 18 years of age until 64 years. In the 65+ years age group, 44.2% continue to

participate in non-organised sport and recreation and close to 30% participate in regular sport and

recreation (3+ times/week).

Appendix B provides supplementary data on the figures and tables included in the profile with a focus

on regional and local government areas.

Recommendations

Recommendation 1

The Tasmanian Population Health survey undertaken in 2009 be conducted regularly, using the same

questions so far as is practicable to allow time series comparisons.

Recommendation 2

Establish a whole-of-government data collection benchmark for older Tasmanians in line with the

collaborative framework of the Tasmanian Government Stats Matter initiative.

Recommendation 3

Development of a website using DPIPWE’s LIST Geospatial Information System database to present

data and information about Tasmania’s older population.

Recommendation 4

That the Tasmanian Government establishes an ongoing state-wide advisory group to identify and

address current and emerging demographic opportunities and challenges arising from Tasmania’s

ageing population.

Recommendation 5

That the recommended advisory group works with the Tasmanian Government to develop a

demographic plan which includes a focus on industries that support older people’s social, cultural and

economic participation and which incorporates inter and intra state migration analysis, goals and

targets.

Recommendation 6

That COTA Tas uses the evidence herein to hold forums to promote awareness of key issues for older

Tasmanians, highlighting demographic insights for regional and local government planners, and

developing policies, programs and practices that support inclusive ageing.


Recommendations

Recommendation 1

The Tasmanian Population Health survey undertaken in 2009 (used extensively in this report) be

conducted regularly, using the same questions so far as is practicable to allow time series

comparisons.

Recommendation 2

Establishment of a whole-of-government data collection benchmark for older Tasmanians in line with

the collaborative framework of the Stats Matter (a strategy to build Tasmanian Government statistical

assets and capability) and to adopt and promote consistent terms and definitions across all

departments with reference to a diverse profile for older Tasmanians.

As part of this recommendation, all Tasmanian Government departments will establish

minimum agreed standards and work towards a minimum data set referring to older

Tasmanians with agreed collection protocols.

In particular, that all policy dialogue and direction refer to the following age groups among

older Tasmanians:

60-74 years the young old

75- 84 years the mid old

85+ years the older old.

This work should be coordinated by DPaC and shared with government and non-government

stakeholders via the website noted in Recommendation 3, and

Information presented be utilised to contribute to opportunities for analysis and evidence

based policy development for older Tasmanians.

As resources permit, similar protocols should be applied to all age groups.

Recommendation 3

Development of a website using DPIPWE’s LIST Geospatial Information System database to present

data and information about Tasmania’s older population. Furthermore, that the statistics and graphs

outlined in the baseline data set herein, be developed into maps to create demographic profiles at

state, regional and Local Government Area levels and encourage the use of the LIST for social data.

As resources permit, LIST should have relevant data about other age groups added.

Recommendation 4

That the Tasmanian Government establishes an ongoing state-wide advisory group to identify and

address current and emerging demographic opportunities and challenges arising from Tasmania’s

ageing population.


The advisory group to adopt a whole-of-government approach to its work and include representation

from older Tasmanians, Government departments, local governments and non-government

organisations.

Recommendation 5

That the recommended advisory group works with the Tasmanian Government to develop a

demographic plan which includes focus on industries that support older people’s social, cultural and

economic participation and which incorporates inter and intra state migration analysis, goals and

targets.

Recommendation 6

That COTA Tas uses the evidence herein to hold forums to promote awareness of key issues for older

Tasmanians, highlighting demographic insights for regional and local government planners, and

developing policies, programs and practices that support inclusive ageing.


Background

FACING THE FUTURE - A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians was developed as part of the State

Government’s Inclusive Ageing: Tasmania 2012-2014 Strategy (the Strategy). The Strategy was

released in August 2012 and forms part of the overarching response of the Tasmanian Government to

support a more socially inclusive society in the context of an ageing population.

The key objective of the Strategy is to increase the capacity for all older people to be fully included in

community life, particularly those who are socially excluded or at risk of becoming so. The Strategy

outlines the approach that the Government will adopt in progressing policy in relation to older people

and highlights six projects that will be undertaken during the three year period 2012-2014.

The first of the six projects is Building evidence: a demographic profile. This project recognised that

the availability of data on older Tasmanians was limited and aimed to build an evidence base profile

providing greater insights into and increased understanding of older members of the Tasmanian

community. 2 The project aimed to develop a single data set that paints a comprehensive picture of

older people in Tasmania. The Government will use the information to assist in better targeting

decisions relating to the allocation of resources and services. It will also use this information to

provide an evidence base for each of the other five projects. 3

The State Government allocated resources to the Council on the Ageing - Tasmania (COTA Tas) to

develop FACING THE FUTURE - A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians (this document). COTA is the

peak body which advocates and lobbies for the rights, needs and interests of older Tasmanians. In

addition to benefiting the Government, this document will be a useful resource to COTA and other

community organisations in the development and provision of their services to older Tasmanians.

To assist in developing this resource the State Government established a Working Group to provide

feedback, expertise and advice. Membership of the Working Party is outlined in Appendix A –

Membership of the Building Evidence Project Working Group.

Both the State Government and COTA appreciate the contribution of members of the Working Group

and greatly value their insight and work in developing this resource.

2 Tasmanian Government, 2012, Inclusive Ageing: Tasmania 2012-2014 Strategy, Department of Premier and Cabinet, p 20

3 Tasmanian Government, 2012


Introduction

The intent of this document is to coordinate and present baseline data on older Tasmanians and their

varied characteristics in a whole-of-population and socio-economic context.

By carefully examining the characteristics of older Tasmanians and understanding the trends in

ageing, we can continue to support and promote the future health and wellbeing of our entire

population.

According to the Census in 2011, the Tasmanian population was 495,354 with

113,440 people (23% of the population) aged 60 years or more (Australia 19.6%);

80,708 people (16% of the population) aged 65 years or more (Australia 14.1%); and

22,425 people (4.3% of the population) aged 80 years or more (Australia 3.9%).

The trend toward an older median age is greater in Tasmania than for all other Australian states and

territories, with our population ageing at a faster rate. This has significant repercussions for the

Tasmanian community and its social, cultural and economic organisation.

It is important that in planning for an ‘older’ Tasmania that:

an evidence base, demonstrating the characteristics of an ageing population be established,

refined and built upon;

the benefits and challenges of an ageing population are forecast for Tasmanian communities, the

regional and state economy;

whole-of-government initiatives are developed to ensure regular resource allocation for efficient

focussed data collection;

the baby boomer profile be better understood and accommodated;

impacts of migration, as well as the ages of people moving in and out of Tasmania, be understood

and considered as a planning tool across all levels of government; and

socio-economic opportunities arising from increased longevity be capitalised on.

What does ‘old’ actually refer to in the context of the many interpretations of what an older person is?

Self-perception – what or who is ‘old’? - varies from person to person, with many baby boomers in

their 60s and persons in their 70s and 80s not yet feeling old nor referring to themselves as old. This

is a product of ever increasing longevity, health and productivity.

FACING THE FUTURE - A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians is designed to

provide an overall view of older Tasmanians based on available data. The

report refers to major factors that impact on the lives of older Tasmanians.


There is no universally agreed definition of older people. The ABS typically defines an older person as

aged 65 years or older. Some State Government agencies use 60 years as the basis for eligibility for

programs and services for older people.

For the purposes of this report the older population is defined as 60 years and over.

To enable meaningful comparisons of Tasmania’s profile over time and across all Australian states and

territories where ABS data is used the profile refers to those aged 65+ years. In other data sets where

data was collected with ‘local’ definitions in mind, the profile refers to 60+ years.

In compiling and analysing the data contained in the report, COTA referred to the definitions set by

the Working Group and the collection protocols common to federal departments, including the ABS

and other Australian Government departments.

The broad definitions of age range (or age categories) used to describe the various groups of older

Tasmanians are:

‘young old’ – 60-74 years4

‘mid old’ – 75-84 years

‘older old’ – 85 years and over.

Using these sub-categories enables comparison between age cohorts.

According to the ABS Census of Population and Housing data, numbers and percentages of older

Tasmanians in 2011 were as follows:

Table 1 Number and Proportion - Older Tasmanians, ABS Census of Population and Housing

At the ‘younger’ end of the ‘old’ spectrum there is the ‘baby boomer’ generation, many of whom are

still in paid work and are actively and meaningfully engaged in their communities.

At the ‘older’ end of the ‘old’ spectrum there is a marked increase in the number of people aged 85

years and over, (the older old), many of whom are also meaningfully engaged in their communities.

This said, the evidence shows a high proportion of people aged 85+ years have associated increases in

the prevalence of co-morbid health conditions and neurodegenerative diseases resulting in increasing

support needs.

Growth in the number of older Tasmanians and their increasing diversity results in a complex range of

differing circumstances and needs as the population ages. The community and all levels of

government need to recognise and plan for this ageing of the population while taking advantage of

the wealth of opportunities and diligently addressing the associated challenges.

4 60-74 years for locally collected data, and 65-74 years from ABS data sources

Cohort Age group Number Percent of Tasmania’s population

young old 60-74 years 77,493 16%

mid old 75-84 years 25,696 5%

older old 85 + years 10,251 2%


The routine availability of quality data that paints a meaningful picture of ‘older’ Tasmanians is

essential in improving the understanding of Tasmania’s demography and planning for the future. This

document aims to do this by providing up-to-date and reliable information on the differing

circumstances and needs of older Tasmanians according to their income, health, independence, living

arrangements, paid work or voluntary participation and other societal and community characteristics.

An ageing Tasmania has significant social and economic impacts. A focus on the Australian Bureau of

Statistics (ABS) Census of Population and Housing (the Census), along with other ABS surveys and

reports, data collected by various government agencies, demographic analyses, along with the use of

reasonable population projections, provide an entry point to the challenges and opportunities facing

an older Tasmania.

Policy and planning specialists increasingly rely on evidence based research to:

ensure equitable access to socio-economic wellness;

target opportunities that protect living standards;

promote industry responsiveness to change;

identify opportunities in productivity and employment creation, and

assist with population planning, service restructuring, and migration planning.

It is important that Tasmania capitalises on opportunities emerging from the ‘net brain gain’. The

Demographic Change Advisory Council (DCAC) identified that migration movements between

Tasmania and other Australian states between 2001 and 2006 actually resulted in a ‘brain gain’5, with

older adults migrating to Tasmania having more post school qualifications than those who left. This

coupled with the relatively strong financial profile of older ‘migrants’ moving to Tasmania and their

contribution to our economic, social and cultural growth presents a set of opportunities that deserve

targeted research.

5 Taylor, L, 2013, Tackling the Challenge of Tasmania’s Ageing Population, The Conversation, p 2


Data indicators

This document explores the following indicators in the coming chapters. The indicators were grouped

to provide a comprehensive set of insights.

The report does not of course paint a complete picture, but it does provide insight into the

characteristics of older Tasmanians arising from 2011 ABS Census data and other ABS reports, while

also referring to data (collections between 2009 and 2012) about key areas of policy interest.

Table 2 Summary of indicators used in FACING THE FUTURE - A Baseline Profile on Older Tasmanians

Data Indicators

Tasmania’s Ageing Population

Age and sex structure of the population

Life expectancy

Structure of Tasmania’s ageing population

• Structural and numerical ageing

Population projections

Ageing in Tasmania’s regions and LGAs

• Population 65+ years

Urban and rural location

• Settlement size by age group

Residential mobility

• Changed address in last 5 years

• Time lived in current

neighbourhood

Living arrangements

• Marital status

• Living alone

• Raising children

Cultural diversity

• Indigenous status

• Region of birth

• Language spoken

• Spoken English proficiency

Key issues for older Tasmanians

Socioeconomic status

Social Inclusion and Social Exclusion

• Social exclusion risk factors

Life’s Basics

Income

• Income range

• Low income

• Pensions and allowances

Housing

• Type

• Affordability

• Public housing

• Housing stress

• Homelessness

Security

• Financial and food security

• Household expenses

• Health and medical expenses

• Socioeconomic disadvantage

• Household debt


Data Indicators cont.

Accessibility

Transport

• Driver’s licence

• Access to motor vehicle

• Access for disabled

Services

Disability

• Disability by age group

• Living alone

• Unmet need for assistance

Aged care

• Residential aged care

• Community care and HACC services

Connection and Contribution

Family and community support

Participation

• Workforce participation

− Labour force status by age group

− Hours worked

− Industry of employment

− Employment type and sector

• Social involvement

− Contact with family and friends

• Community participation

− Groups and events

− Trust

− Feeling safe

• Civic participation

− Valued by society

• Voluntary contribution

− Volunteering for organisations and

groups

− Carers

− Unpaid child care

Lifelong Learning

Literacy and numeracy skills

Qualifications

Older adult learning

Computer and internet use

Health and Wellbeing

Self assessed health

Risk factors for poor health

• Obesity

• Excess alcohol consumption

• Personal stressors

Chronic conditions

Neurodegenerative disorders

Hospital admissions

Health and wellbeing - keeping healthy

• Nutrition

• Physical activity

• Cultural and leisure events


Data sources

This document provides a statistical profile of older Tasmanians. In developing this profile, the aim

was to provide answers to the following questions:

Who are older Tasmanians?

Where do older Tasmanians live and what do they do?

What are the characteristics of older Tasmanians?

What do the indicators of social inclusion/exclusion tell us about older Tasmanians?

How are older Tasmanians faring?

A number of data sources were utilised in the development of this profile of older Tasmanians. The

majority of the data sets presented in this report were sourced from the Australian Bureau of

Statistics (ABS) which typically focuses on the older population as those aged 65+ years. The Census of

Population and Housing 2011 is also used extensively, with references to the ABS National Regional

Profile – Tasmania 2007-2011, and other ABS National Surveys including:

ABS General Social Survey 2010

ABS Household Expenditure Survey 2009-10

ABS Disability, Ageing and Carers Survey 2009

ABS Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies, Australia, 2011-12

ABS Participation in Sport and Physical Recreation, Australia, 2011-12.

Population projections were sourced from:

ABS Population Projections, Australia, 2006 to 2101

Demographic Change Advisory Council 2008 Tasmanian Population Projections.

In addition, Federal and State Government departments were invited to submit data sets they collect

and collate on older Tasmanians, and most of these are included in this report.

This document draws extensively on data collected in 2009 for the Tasmanian Population Health

Survey (TPHS) to profile the health and wellbeing of Tasmanians, and other community and societal

characteristics.

Data variability and reliability

Scope, scale and reliability of the data sets used in this profile are comprehensively detailed in each

original data source. Aspects of these are summarised in the following Table 3. For complete details

on the reliability and scope of a specific data set the original data source should be referred to.

This report draws on many data sets from a number of sources with varying scope, currency and

reliability to develop a profile of older Tasmanians in 2013. The scope is limited by the availability and

reliability of relevant data and is intended as a baseline. Regular updating and mapping of the data

will maximise its value into the future.


Surveys always include an element of sampling error, as they use responses from a sample to

generalise about the population. Sampling error ‘occurs because only a small proportion of the total

population is used to produce estimates that represent the whole population’. Sampling error can be

reliably measured as it is calculated based on the scientific methods used to design surveys’.6 All

survey data included here has a relative standard error (RSE) of less than 25% unless indicated

otherwise. According to the ABS, ‘only estimates with RSEs less than 25% are considered sufficiently

reliable for most purposes’.7 For information about the reliability of specific survey data please see

the data source for RSE values to assess fitness for purpose before proceeding to use these data sets.

Table 3 Data sources – year, scope, sample size, and reliability

Data source Year Scope Sample size Reliability

ABS Census of

Population and

Housing

2011 All people in Australia on

Census night

Total population Very high

ABS National

Regional Profile

2007-

2011

ATO – Wage and salary

earners;

FaHCSIA and DVA –

pension recipients

Actual count Very high

ABS General

Social Survey

2010 Usual residents of private

dwellings aged 18+

15,028 dwellings across

Australia

Designed to provide reliable

estimates at State level

RSE provided for each value

ABS Household

Expenditure

Survey

2009-

2010

Usual residents aged 15+

of private dwellings in

urban and rural areas of

Australia.

9,774 households,

comprising 17,955 persons

Designed to provide reliable

estimates at State level for

broad aggregates. More

detailed estimates should be

used with caution, especially

for Tasmania. RSE provided

for each value

ABS Disability,

Ageing and

Carers Survey

2009 Persons in both urban and

rural areas, all states and

territories, living in private

and non-private dwellings,

refers to older people

aged 60+ years

27,600 private dwellings and

200 non-private dwellings,

care-accommodation ~1,100

establishments. 64,213

persons in households,

9,470 persons in care


ABS Programme

for the

International

Assessment of

Adult

Competencies,

Australia

2011-

2012

Usual residents aged 15-

74 years of private

dwellings in non-remote

areas of Australia

8,988 persons Designed to provide reliable

estimates at State level.


ABS Participation

in Sport and

Physical

Recreation,

Australia

2011-

2012

Usual residents aged 15+

years of private dwellings

17,036 private

dwellings/persons

6 ABS 2010 General Social Survey

7 Ibid


Data source Year Scope Sample size Reliability

DHHS Tasmanian

Population Health

Survey

2009 Non-institutionalised Tasmanian

residents aged 18+ with access to a

landline telephone

6,300 respondents Designed to provide

reliable estimates at

region level.

RSE provided for each

value

Government

departments

varies Service users Actual count Very high

ABS Population

Projections,

Australia

2006-

2101

Three series of projections

developed

Each series based on

different assumptions

about future

demographic trends

DCAC

Tasmanian

Population

Projections

2007-

2032

Three series of projections

developed

Each series based on

different assumptions

about future

demographic trends

ABS –

Australian

Social Trends

2009-

2013

Released three times a year,

Australian Social Trends presents

analysis and commentary on a

wide range of social issues.

The Tasmanian Population Health Survey

The data included in this report sourced from the 2009 Tasmanian Population Health Survey (TPHS) is

for respondents aged 60 years and over. This data is a subset of the TPHS results and has not been

published elsewhere. For this reason the methodology of the TPHS is included here.

The 2009 TPHS used a regionally representative sample to obtain estimates for the entire in-scope

population, and so the data to follow in this report must be presented in percentages – that is, as

population weighted estimates. Table 4 shows the number of respondents aged 60 years and over by

region and sex.

Table 4 Tasmanian Population Health Survey – survey respondents aged 60+ years, by region and sex

Sex Region

North North West South Total

Male 305 316 312 933

Female 506 498 491 1495

Total 811 814 803 2428

Source: DHHS Tasmanian Population Health Survey 2009

Tasmanian Population Health Survey Statistical methods and interpretation8

8 Department of Health and Human Services, 2012, Health Status of Tasmanians 60 Years and Over Results from the 2009 Tasmanian

Population Health Survey, page 8 unpublished report


Methodology The TPHS was undertaken using Computer Assisted Telephone Interviews (CATI) and used Random

Digit Dialling (RDD) as the sample frame. The target population was defined as all non-

institutionalised Tasmanian residents aged 18 years and over with access to a landline telephone.

The survey sample included a total of 6,300 respondents stratified into sub-samples of 2,100 in each

of the three regions; North, North West and South with 2,428 respondents aged 60+ years. This

sample allocation allowed for an oversampling of the North West region to obtain higher data

reliability. No interviewing was undertaken in languages other than English, so limiting the scope of

the survey to exclude those of the Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) background with low

English proficiency. Percentages and the corresponding confidence intervals in this document are

weighted to the Tasmanian population, based on the stratified sampling design of the survey.

In interpreting this data set it should be noted that the survey may not be fully representative of the

Tasmanian population. Tasmanians without access to a landline telephone, such as sole mobile

phone users, were not included in the survey.9

Data presentation

This demographic profile presents data at three geographic scales:

Tasmania – whole of state

Regions (Fig 1)

Local Government Areas (LGA) (Fig 2).

The use of these geographical standards reflects the Tasmanian Government’s Regional and LGA

planning and resource allocation models.

Data sets are presented within chapters in graphs and maps (and tables where applicable). The

presentation format was selected for each data set based on the most appropriate way to ‘visually tell

the story’ of the data. Numeric tables associated with each data set are included where appropriate

in Appendix B – Data tables

Two aspects associated with ABS Census of Population and Housing data are worthy of a brief

mention.

The ABS when releasing Census statistics randomises cell values of three or fewer to protect

confidentiality. These cells are randomly assigned the values 0 or 3. Therefore, small numbers

are unreliable.

The Census releases data based on persons’ place of usual residence or by location on Census

night. This report uses Census ‘usual residence’ data, unless otherwise noted.

9 Statistical Methods and Interpretation section is from The Department of Health and Human Services, 2012, Health Status of

Tasmanians 60 Years and Over Results from t

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