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Gender differences in lower extremity function in Latin American elders: seeking explanations from a life-course
Beatriz Eugenia Alvarado1, Ricardo O Guerra, Maria Victoria Zunzunegui
1Departement de Médecine Sociale et Préventive, Université de Montréal, CP 6128 Succursale Centre Ville, H3C 3J7 Montréal, Québec, Canada. be.alvarado.llano@umontreal.ca
Life-course factors influence mobility differences between men and women in older age. Childhood hunger, depression, education, and income are key predictors of lower extremity limitations (LEL).
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Sociology
Background:
- Gender disparities in mobility limitations are a significant concern in aging populations.
- Understanding the role of life-course exposures is crucial for addressing these disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how life-course exposures contribute to gender differences in mobility among older adults.
- To identify specific factors across the lifespan that predict mobility limitations in later life.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of survey data from 10,661 adults aged 60+ in Latin American and Caribbean cities.
- Definition of lower extremity limitations (LEL) based on difficulties with five key activities.
- Multivariate logistic regression models used to assess predictors of LEL.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of LEL was higher in women (23.3-42.9%) than men (9.3-23.7%) across cities.
- Life-course and health factors explained a small portion of the gender gap in LEL.
- Childhood hunger predicted LEL in women; depression was more strongly associated with LEL in men. Education and income were linked to LEL in both genders.
Conclusions:
- Life-course exposures are significant predictors of mobility in older adults.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the complex relationship between gender, life-course factors, and mobility in later life.
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