Data archiving preserves the evidence base for aging research, supports reproducibility, and enables secondary analyses that can improve care and policy. Archived datasets also help reviewers and readers verify findings and interpret results in context.

Authors are encouraged to deposit data, code, and related materials in trusted repositories whenever possible. Data sharing strengthens public confidence in research and accelerates knowledge translation for older adult health.

• Repositories should provide persistent identifiers (e.g., DOI or accession IDs) and support FAIR aligned metadata and access.
• Repositories should be stable, searchable, and widely used in the research community.
• Access conditions must be clearly described, including any restrictions.
• Data should be documented with clear file names, definitions, and variable descriptions.

For clinical or community based aging research, choose repositories that allow controlled access when privacy or consent requirements apply. Authors should ensure that repository terms align with participant consent and ethical approvals.

For multi site or longitudinal studies, include site level metadata and harmonization notes to support reuse and comparability across cohorts.

All submissions must include a Data Availability Statement describing where data can be accessed, under what conditions, and how to request access if restrictions apply. The statement should be included in the manuscript under the "Statements and Declarations" section.

Example statements may include: data available in a public repository with DOI, data available upon reasonable request, or data restricted due to privacy or legal constraints.

• Use non proprietary file formats when possible (e.g., CSV, TXT, TIFF).
• Include a README file with variable definitions and analytic notes.
• Document data processing steps and version history.
• Ensure that files are labeled clearly and consistently.

Clear documentation improves reuse and reduces barriers for secondary analysis in aging research and health services studies.

Authors are responsible for securing permissions for third party data or materials included in their datasets. For example, if data were collected using proprietary instruments, authors must confirm that sharing does not violate licensing terms.

When possible, datasets should be shared under open licenses that permit reuse with attribution. Ensure that data licenses are compatible with participant consent and institutional requirements.

Research involving older adults may include sensitive health information. If the identification is not possible or sharing is restricted by consent, authors should explain limitations clearly and provide a plan for qualified access.

For qualitative data, transcripts should be anonymized and reviewed for indirect identifiers. If data cannot be shared, the Data Availability Statement should specify the reason and any conditions under which access may be granted.

Datasets should be cited in the reference list with a persistent identifier. Include the repository name, dataset title, version (if applicable), and DOI or accession number. This ensures that data contributions are recognized and discoverable.