The influence of rural/urban residence on health in the oldest-old

Int J Aging Hum Dev. 1994;38(1):65-89. doi: 10.2190/XV9T-JKJK-HBTA-62H1.

Abstract

Differences between rural (n = 18) and urban (n = 66) centenarians are examined across the following variables: physical health, activities of daily living, mental health, and life satisfaction. Results demonstrate higher levels of morale in rural residents and higher levels of functional health as exhibited by urban elders. Qualitative data support trends of increased degrees of independence among the rural participants. The absence of robust differences in rural and urban centenarians is discussed in terms of a leveling-off effect.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over*
  • Attitude to Health
  • Cohort Studies
  • Female
  • Georgia
  • Geriatric Assessment*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Personality Assessment
  • Rural Population*
  • Urban Population*