Using IPUMS Time Use to Study Aging: Previous Work and Future Opportunities

• In Event: 3434 - Secondary Data Sources for Research on Aging

Abstract

IPUMS Time Use (https://www.ipums.org/timeuse.shtml) is an underutilized resource for the study of aging. IPUMS Time Use lowers the barriers to accessing consistently-coded time diary data from the US and around the world. Funded by NICHD, new data are always being added to the database and are freely accessible online. In this presentation, we will briefly describe the strengths of time diary data and how to access the data. We will highlight our previous and ongoing research using time diary data from IPUMS that focuses on older adult experiences. The vast potential of time diary data are clearly illustrated for older adults, many of whom are transitioning out of the labor force and whose daily experiences are rarely captured in other federal surveys. For example, we will show how decreases in paid work are associated with increased formal and informal volunteering, changing time allocated to (both positive and negative) health behaviors, and increased amounts of time spent with a spouse; we will also describe the changing aging-related time allocation patterns in the United States. Finally, we will also suggest directions for future research that leverage the unique opportunities provided by time diary data.

Authors

• Sarah M. Flood, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities

• Phyllis Moen, University of Minnesota