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Does social isolation affect medical doctor visits? New evidence among European older adults

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Listed:
  • David Cantarero-Prieto
  • Marta Pascual-Sáez
  • Carla Blázquez-Fernández

Abstract

We have used panel data (2004-2015) from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) to examine the impact of social isolation on general practitioner health care use. Socio-demographic, health and social isolation measures are analysed. Differences by welfare regimes have been also considered. Using two definitions of social isolation (Alone and Help), we have found that a sizeable proportion of those aged 50 years and older in Europe reported social isolation. Differences by welfare regimes are highlighted. Our findings provide several implications in current debates on the sustainability of welfare states.

Suggested Citation

  • David Cantarero-Prieto & Marta Pascual-Sáez & Carla Blázquez-Fernández, 2018. "Does social isolation affect medical doctor visits? New evidence among European older adults," Working Papers. Collection B: Regional and sectoral economics 1805, Universidade de Vigo, GEN - Governance and Economics research Network.
    • Handle: RePEc:gov:wpregi:1805
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    File URL: http://infogen.webs.uvigo.es/WPB/WP1805.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Europe; aging; social isolation; health care utilization; SHARE; count data models.;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I10 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - General
    • I19 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Other

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