The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA)
Helping Make Ireland the Best Place in the World to Grow Old
TILDA is a study of a representative cohort of at least 8,000 Irish people over the age of 50, charting their health, social and economic circumstances over a 10 year period. The data from TILDA will provide policy-makers and innovators in the fields of health, social care, pension planning and biotechnology with a unique knowledge base. It will create opportunities for research and development as well as innovation in technology and services in ageing in Ireland.
The estimated cost of the main study is €30M. €25M funding comes from a unique partnership of the Department of Health and Children, The Atlantic Philanthropies and Irish Life - representing state, private and corporate sources.
"TILDA will provide invaluable information to help plan for Ireland's older people now and into the future."
Ms. Mary Harney TD, Minister for Health and Children
"The Atlantic Philanthropies is very pleased to support TILDA and is confident that its findings will enrich the lives of older people in Ireland. TILDA will make a major contribution to evidence based policy and planning on ageing. The emerging data will inform attitudes and enable enhanced service provision. Its many innovative features are already attracting international interest."
Mary Sutton, Programme Executive Ageing (ROI), The Atlantic Philanthropies
"At a time when the country is going through a difficult economic period, we are pleased that our support for TILDA will help Ireland position itself for the future. Data on ageing is particularly important in the Irish context in order to plan efficient allocation of resources."
Gerry Loughrey, Head of Group Corporate Responsibility at Irish Life & Permanent plc.