Exploring the nexus of energy use, ageing, and health and well-being among older Australians

Researchers have argued that our understandings of energy efficiency should be re-defined to move beyond a concept singularly concerned with saving and cutting back on energy use, to one that acknowledges health, well-being and comfort. An ageing population has significant implications for energy policy, programs and advocacy in Australia. Researchers have identified that concerns over wasting energy, rising fuel costs, and fuel poverty can cause older people to put their health at risk The overall aim of this research project was to provide in-depth understandings of the way that energy use and health and well-being are associated among older Australians, and the ways that they use energy in the home to manage and maintain their health and well-being. The research identified that older people with resources can actively plan how to maintain health and well-being and to minimize the energy costs associated with aging; but that older people with few resources are forced to reduce energy use often with negative consequences for physical, mental and social well-being.