Migration and household change in the population aged 65 and over, 1971-1991

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Sociology
• Demography

Background:

• Significant societal changes have impacted the living arrangements of older individuals.
• Understanding migration patterns is crucial for public health and social policy concerning the elderly.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze regional variations in household composition among older adults.
• To investigate the evolving relationship between household changes and migration over time.
• To explore the interplay of household composition, health, and migration in older populations during 1981-1991.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Office for National Statistics (ONS) Longitudinal Study.
• Employed linked individual-level data from 1971, 1981, and 1991 national Censuses.
• Incorporated linked vital registration data for comprehensive analysis.

Main Results:

• Despite dramatic changes in older people's living arrangements, mobility remained relatively stable across the 1971-81 and 1981-91 decades.
• Regional differences in household composition were observed.
• Interrelationships between household change, health, and migration were analyzed for the 1981-91 period.

Conclusions:

• Elderly migration patterns in Great Britain exhibit considerable stability.
• Changes in household composition do not appear to be a primary driver of increased elderly migration.
• Further research is warranted to fully understand the factors influencing elderly migration and health.