Socioeconomic Inequalities in Healthy Aging of Older Korean Adults
Author Information
Author(s): Lee Yunhwan, Kim Eunsaem, Kim Jinhee, Kim Sukyung, Shin YooGyung, Han Jimin
Primary Institution: Ajou University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
The study aimed to investigate healthy aging trends by socioeconomic status among Koreans aged 65 years or older.
Conclusion
While there has been a general trend toward healthy aging in South Korea, socioeconomic disparities persist, particularly among different education levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Healthy life expectancy in South Korea reached 73 years in 2021, ranking third in the world.
- The study analyzed data from about 10,000 people in each wave of the National Survey of Older Koreans conducted every three years from 2011 to 2020.
- The healthy aging index (HAI) was created by combining physiological, physical, cognitive, psychological, and social dimensions.
Takeaway
The study looked at how older Koreans are aging healthily, but found that those with less education are not doing as well.
Methodology
Data were analyzed from four waves of the National Survey of Older Koreans using a multilevel analysis with a cross-classified random effects model.
Limitations
The study may not account for all factors influencing healthy aging beyond socioeconomic status.
Participant Demographics
Koreans aged 65 years or older.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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