This dataset is for waves 0-5 of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, known as ELSA. Wave zero is the the sample of participants who were selected from the 1998, 1999, and 2001 Health Survey of England to participate in ELSA. The sample is occasionally refreshed from the HSE.

The survey covers the health and financial status of England residents over the age of 50.

A number of tests are given as part of the survey during even number waves including standing and sitting, height, weight, waist and hip measurement, lung function, balance, leg raise, chair rise, grip strength, and a saliva log (cortisol test). Blood tests were administered during waves two and four. Cognition tests are given during each wave.