Mortality by indicators of socioeconomic status among the Finnish elderly

Socioeconomic mortality differentials among the entire Finnish elderly population (those aged 60 years and over) during 1981-85 are examined on the basis of linked data, compiled by means of linking death records of 1981-85 to the 1980 census. Several indicators of socioeconomic position are used: own educational level and occupational class, spouse's education and class, household disposable income, and housing conditions. Marked differences are found according to each of the indicators. Mortality differentials tend to decrease with age and be more pronounced among men as compared to women. In most cases differences persist even when the other socioeconomic indicators are taken into account although they diminish. The interpretation of socioeconomic mortality differentials and the problems of measuring the socioeconomic status of the elderly are discussed.