NICOLA

The Northern Ireland Cohort for the Longitudinal Study of Ageing (NICOLA) is the largest public health study in Northern Ireland talking to people from 50 years old right up to 100 years and beyond. NICOLA explores the health, lifestyles and financial situation of people as they grow older.

• The population aged over 50 is the most rapidly growing group in Northern Ireland
• In just over 10 years there will be more people aged over 65 years than under 18 years
• 8504 people aged 50 years and over took part in the first interviews in NICOLA Wave 1

This major research study, run by Queen’s University Belfast, explores the lives of people aged 50 years and over. The interview covers topics such as health, housing, finances, work, retirement and quality of life. 

The data gathered is compared with similar research studies in the United Kingdom, ELSA and the Republic of Ireland, TILDA and also helps inform government policy and shape public services in years to come. 

The information gathered can help the government ensure that the healthcare system and pension system are meeting people’s needs. It also gives researchers the opportunity to understand what influences successful ageing and what we can do to improve health.

The study has recruited 8,500 people from across Northern Ireland to provide a true representation of the Northern Ireland population.  Our aim is to monitor these individuals and examine how their health, lifestyle, financial circumstances and overall wellbeing changes over the next 10 years.