Authors

• Kokko, Katja (University of Jyväskylä. Gerontology Research Centre and Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences)

Keywords

alcohol use, cardiovascular diseases, clinical tests and measurements, cognitive processes, disabilities, diseases, health status, injuries, medical diagnosis, medical examinations, medicinal drugs, memory, menopause, mental disorders, psychological well-being, symptoms

Abstract

This dataset is part of the Jyväskylä Longitudinal Study of Personality and Social Development (JYLS), which has followed the same individuals since 1968. This Developmental Psychological Perspectives on Transitions at Age 60: Individuals Navigating Across the Lifespan (TRAILS) research wave explores the lives of participants, now around 61 years old, across key areas such as family, work, housing, health and leisure. Data collection for this phase included a life situation questionnaire, a psychological interview, self-assessment forms, a health examination and monitoring of physical activity. This dataset contains data collected during health examinations, including interviews, tests and measurements.

Respondents' health status and morbidity were explored through questions on diagnoses, self-rated health, current health problems and medication use. In addition, substance use was examined, with a particular focus on alcohol use, related habits and harms, as well as the concurrent use of alcohol and medication. Functional ability and mobility were assessed by examining movement and activity limitations and their underlying causes, such as somatic, neurological and mental health conditions, and by collecting information on accidents and injuries.

Further questions covered the use of health services and treatment history (including hospital care, psychiatric care and substance abuse treatment), as well as menopause, hearing, sleep and fatigue. Measurements included blood pressure, heart rate, height, weight, waist circumference and hip circumference. Handgrip strength was also tested, and information was collected on physical activity and the use of activity trackers. Respondents completed cognitive tests focusing on memory and its functions, including verbal fluency, word list learning and delayed recall. Psychological wellbeing, mood, everyday functioning and social functioning were assessed using items from the PARADISE questionnaire.