The main aim of the AgeWellAccounts (AWA) was to analyse the wellbeing from a life course perspective. In particular, we explored age and gender patterns in three dimensions: I. the economic situation of Europeans, II. the way they are using their time, III. their subjective wellbeing.

To study the interrelations among these three dimensions the focus was on the role of intergenerational transfers, which have a great impact on the distribution of economic resources as well as time use and general wellbeing. The family is of particular importance, as it provides for care, protection, financial transfers (and education) at all stages of the life course.

The research has demonstrated the importance of a generational perspective and the combined use of different types of wellbeing measures. Economic indicators, time use data and subjective wellbeing indicators measure different aspects of wellbeing.  The findings help to better understand at which stage of their life and in which circumstances individuals are most vulnerable economically, in their health, and in their subjective wellbeing. These findings are of great importance when considering necessary changes in the intergenerational transfer system.

About the team

The consortium consisted of 3 partners from 3 EU countries. The Austrian Academy of Sciences taking the lead of the project, the Paris School of Economics in France and the Sapienza University of Rome, Italy.

Name of lead(s) and their affiliation(s)

Alexia Fürnkranz-Prskawetz (Project coordinator, Austrian Academy of Sciences/Vienna Institute of Demography).