A Minimum Data Set on Ageing and Older Persons in Sub-Saharan Africa: Process and Outcome
Population studies
21
Issue: 1
(04 - 2006)
Relatively scant knowledge is available on the situations of older persons in sub-Saharan
Africa. Reliable and accessible demographic and health statistics are needed to inform
policy making for the older population. The process and outcome of a project to create a
minimum data set (MDS) on ageing and older persons to provide an evidence base to
inform policy are described. The project was initiated by the World Health Organization
and conducted in Ghana, South Africa, Tanzania and Zimbabwe. A set of indicators was
established to constitute a sub-regional MDS, populated from data sources in the four
countries; a national MDS was produced for each country. Major gaps and deficiencies
were identified in the available data and difficulties were experienced in accessing data.
Specific gaps, and constraints against the production and access of quality data in the subregion are examined. The project and outcome are evaluated and lessons are drawn. Tasks
for future phases of the project to complete and maintain the MDS are outlined.
Key words: Sub-Saharan Africa, ageing, older persons, minimum data set,
demographic and health indicators, policy
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