The Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) collects data on the health status, lifestyle, and demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of elderly ages 65 and older in 22 provinces. The survey utilizes three methods to obtain information from participants: an in-person interview, a computer-assisted self interview, and a self-enumerated questionnaire. It contains questions relating to the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and to the Activities of Daily Living (ADL). Other areas of focus include diet, smoking and drinking habits, physical activity, health conditions, use of medical services, family, education, income, and living arrangements.

Following the 1998 baseline survey, surviving interviewees were re-interviewed, while interviewees who died were replaced by participants of the same age and sex. Special questionnaires were used to interview family members or close friends about deceased interviewees.