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Living Arrangements, Disability and Gender of Older Adults Among Rural South Africa

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  • Enid Schatz
  • Margaret Ralston
  • Sangeetha Madhavan
  • Mark A Collinson
  • F Xavier Gómez-Olivé

Abstract

Objective A limited understanding exists of the relationship between disability and older persons’ living arrangements in low and middle-income countries (LMICs). We examine the associations between living arrangements, disability, and gender for individuals older than 50 years in rural South Africa.MethodUsing the Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE) survey and Agincourt Health and socio-Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS) data, we explore older persons’ self-reported disability by living arrangements and gender, paying particular attention to various multigenerational arrangements.ResultsControlling for past disability status, a significant relationship between living arrangements and current disability remains, but is moderated by gender. Older persons in households where they may be more “productive†report higher levels of disability; there are fewer differences in women’s than men’s reported disability levels across living arrangement categories.DiscussionThis study underscores the need to examine living arrangements and disability through a gendered lens, with particular attention to heterogeneity among multigenerational living arrangements. Some living arrangements may take a greater toll on older persons than others. Important policy implications for South Africa and other LMICs emerge among vibrant debates about the role of social welfare programs in improving the health of older individuals.

Suggested Citation

  • Enid Schatz & Margaret Ralston & Sangeetha Madhavan & Mark A Collinson & F Xavier Gómez-Olivé, 2018. "Living Arrangements, Disability and Gender of Older Adults Among Rural South Africa," The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, The Gerontological Society of America, vol. 73(6), pages 1112-1122.
    • Handle: RePEc:oup:geronb:v:73:y:2018:i:6:p:1112-1122.
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Collin F Payne & James Mkandawire & Hans-Peter Kohler, 2013. "Disability Transitions and Health Expectancies among Adults 45 Years and Older in Malawi: A Cohort-Based Model," PLOS Medicine, Public Library of Science, vol. 10(5), pages 1-15, May.
    2. Mitra, Sophie & Posarac, Aleksandra & Vick, Brandon, 2013. "Disability and Poverty in Developing Countries: A Multidimensional Study," World Development, Elsevier, vol. 41(C), pages 1-18.
    3. John Knodel & Mary Beth Ofstedal, 2003. "Gender and Aging in the Developing World: Where Are the Men?," Population and Development Review, The Population Council, Inc., vol. 29(4), pages 677-698, December.
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