Activity Limitation Disparities by Sexuality, Gender, and Union Status

• In Event: 070 - Section on Sociology of Population Paper Session. LGBT Health Disparities

Abstract

Previous research suggests that lesbian and gay individuals experience higher rates of disability than heterosexuals, and that this relationship differs by union status (married, cohabiting, never married, previously married) and gender. However, no studies to date have combined data on union status, sexuality, and gender in the investigation of activity limitations. This study uses data from the 2013 National Health Interview Survey to compare the likelihood of activity limitations among lesbian/gay partnerd, never married, previously married single, and straight married, cohabiting, previously married, and never married single respondents aged 18-65 (N = 23,764). Results from logistic regression models show that sexuality, union status, and gender are all associated with activity limitations risk. Results further suggest that the higher risk of activity limitations for lesbian/gay partnered and straight cohabiting respondents is focused on women, while single respondents are more likely to be disadvantaged regardless of gender.

Authors

• Russell Leroy Spiker, University of Cincinnati

• Hui Liu, Michigan State University