Supporting ageing well research: Findings from a research priority setting exercise

Objective This paper describes a workshop process conducted to guide funding priorities for the Ageing Well National Science Challenge in New Zealand (NZ). Methods Based on the Checklist for Health Research Priority Setting, stakeholders networking workshops were conducted in five main cities in NZ (n = 133 attendees). Each workshop involved an introductory presentation; small group work exploring the a priori areas of: mind health, social well-being, health services and age-friendly environments; capturing key ideas on flip charts; feedback; and discussion of documented content. Results Suggested strategies to address these issues incorporated reduction in segregated "villages," delivery of integrated care and provision of age-friendly transport. Proposed examples of monitoring impact included increased tertiary participation by older people and presence of more housing options. Conclusion Actively engaging older adults and community stakeholders in setting research priorities provided a unique opportunity to understand the key areas older adults think important for future research.