Education and Health Among Older Immigrants
Author Information
Author(s): Narine Donnette, Yamashita Takashi, Chidebe Runcie, Cummins Phyllis, Kramer Jenna, Karam Rita
Primary Institution: University of Maryland Baltimore County
Hypothesis
Adult literacy proficiency mediates the relationship between educational attainment and health among middle-aged and older immigrants in the United States.
Conclusion
The study found that adult literacy proficiency significantly mediates the relationship between educational attainment and health outcomes in older immigrants.
Supporting Evidence
- Older immigrants are more likely to be college-educated compared to non-immigrants.
- Diminishing health benefits from education for immigrants are partially due to structural factors.
- Adult literacy proficiency is a malleable indicator of human capital that can be improved at any life stage.
Takeaway
This study shows that helping older immigrants improve their reading and writing skills can lead to better health, even if they have college degrees from their home countries.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from the U.S. Program for International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) to examine the mediation effect of adult literacy on health outcomes.
Participant Demographics
Middle-aged and older immigrants aged 45 years and older.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
[95% CI: LL, UL = 0.168, 0.780]
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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