Exploring the Determinants of Health in the Aging Population: The Role of Education and lifestyle

• In Event: 30860 - Section on Aging and the Life Course Roundtables
  In Refereed Roundtable (90 minute): Table 9. Social Determinants of Health Over the Life Course

Abstract

The phenomenon of an aging population represents an unprecedented social shift in Italy, characterized by higher levels of prosperity and education compared to previous generations. Several studies highlight that higher education levels and greater socioeconomic resources act as protective factors against mortality and poor health. As this generation progresses through the years, it is crucial to explore how their educational attainment and socio-economic conditions shape their perception of health. This study investigates health determinants among elderly Italians, focusing on education and economic resources while considering factors such as gender, age, marital status, and region of residence. Utilizing the ISTAT survey Aspetti della vita quotidiana (2013-2021), we use self-reported health status as the dependent variable, coded as a binary variable (good vs. bad health). To estimate how much of the total effect of education is mediated by economic strain and lifestyle, we employ logistic regression and a mediation model. The results highlight the significant impact of education on elderly health in Italy. At the same time, the mediators (i.e., economic strain and lifestyle) account for 25% of the total effect of education, with the mediation effect being stronger for those living in Northern Italy.

Authors

• Marco Alberio, University of Bologna

• Alice Lomonaco, University of Bologna

• Paolo Pasetti, University of Bologna

• Susy Anny Veloso Resende, University of Bologna

• Loris Vergolini, University of Bologna