A survey of older Australians was conducted to address questions around the financial impact of chronic disease. A sample of 10,000 National Seniors Australia members was selected with representation across age and State categories. Researchers analysed data from the 4,574 responses received, focusing on:

• the extent chronic illness drives reduction in workforce participation
• factors associated with the level of self rated health and quality of life
• what drives the need for assistance with personal care
• the medical and related costs of chronic diseases and the relationship of this expenditure to household income.

Their findings were publishedin the Health and Social Care in the Community journal (Yen L, McRae I, Jeon Y-H, Essue B, Herath P. The impact of chronic illness on workforce participation and the need for assistance with household tasks and personal care by older Australians. Health Soc Care Community 2011; 19(5): 485-494). A second paper has been accepted by the Australian Journal of Primary Health and is due to be published in 2012 (McRae I, Yen L, Essue B, Jeon YH, Herath P. Multi-morbidity is associated with higher out-of-pocket spending: a study of older Australians with multiple chronic conditions. Aust J Prim Health 2012).