How representative is the ACTIVE sample? A statistical comparison of the ACTIVE sample and the HRS sample.

Area of Science:

• Demography
• Biostatistics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• The ACTIVE study is a crucial research initiative.
• Understanding its demographic representativeness compared to national data is essential for generalizability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and quantify demographic disparities between the ACTIVE study cohort and the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) national sample.
• To develop a methodology for adjusting ACTIVE study findings to reflect national demographic distributions.

Main Methods:

• Demographic variables including age, education, sex, and race/ethnicity were analyzed.
• Statistical techniques such as logistic regression modeling (LRM), decision tree analysis (DTA), and post-stratification/raking were employed.
• Sample weights were generated to correct for observed demographic differences.

Main Results:

• The ACTIVE sample exhibited significant demographic differences compared to the HRS sample.
• Specifically, the ACTIVE cohort was found to be younger, more female, more likely to be Black, and possessed higher educational attainment.
• The creation of sample weights was successfully completed.

Conclusions:

• The developed sample weights enable the ACTIVE study results to be considered nationally representative.
• Application of these weights ensures that findings from ACTIVE analyses accurately reflect the demographics of the broader U.S. population as represented by the HRS.
• This enhances the external validity and impact of ACTIVE study research.