Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Spring 3-1-2025
Publication Title
Older Adults’ Health, Ethnicity, and Daily Life
Volume
1
Abstract
Abstract
This study examines the relationship between ethnicity and daily functional disabilities among older adults, focusing on Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). The analysis uses data from the 2020 National Social Life, Health, and Aging Project (NSHAP) survey, which included a sample of individuals aged 57-85 (n=3,005). Respondents provided information on their demographic background (e.g., income, gender, race, age, health, retirement, and marital status) and socioeconomic characteristics through telephone interviews.
The study hypothesized that ethnic differences would be evident in perceived difficulties with ADLs and IADLs in later life. To assess these relationships, both MANOVA and regression analyses were conducted. The results showed that African American and Hispanic older adults reported greater difficulty with ADLs and IADLs compared to their Anglo counterparts, highlighting significant ethnic disparities in daily functional challenges. These findings are consistent with the convoy model, suggesting that ethnicity significantly influences health outcomes and functional abilities in later life. Future research should include a broader range of variables to deepen our understanding of the complex interplay between demographic factors and health outcomes, including daily functional disabilities, among older adults.
Keywords: ethnicity, older adults, daily functional disabilities, ADLs, IADLs
Issue
1
First Page
Introduction This study explores the relationship between older adults' perceived ethnic differences in daily functional disabilities, measured through Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) and Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Daily functional difficulties refer to limitations in both social and physical role tasks, which can lead to socio-functional restrictions in everyday life (Marion, 2018). Daily functional disabilities are characterized by challenges in performing tasks essential for independent living, primarily categorized as IADLs and ADLs (Hooyman & Kiyak, 2020). When we examine older adults' daily functional activities, we’re essentially looking at two main categories: Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs). ADLs encompass basic self-care tasks such as bathing, dressing, eating, transferring (moving from bed to chair), toileting, and maintaining continence. These are the fundamental skills required to meet personal care needs. IADLs, on the other hand, include more complex activities necessary for living independently in the community. These might involve managing finances, handling medications, preparing meals, doing housework, using transportation, and shopping for groceries or other necessities. While ADLs focus on basic personal care, IADLs reflect the ability to manage a household and interact with the wider environment (Marion, 2018). As older adults experience changes in physical, cognitive, or emotional health, their ability to perform these tasks can diminish. This can lead to increased dependency on caregivers or the need for supportive services. Understanding the relationship between these functional abilities and factors such as perceived ethnic differences, as explored in your study, helps researchers and healthcare providers develop tailored interventions and support systems. By identifying specific patterns or disparities, we can better address the unique challenges faced by diverse populations of older adults, ultimately improving their quality of life and promoting greater independence.
Last Page
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Repository Citation
Kang, Hyunsook and Bae, Mihae, "Older Adults’ Health, Ethnicity, and Daily Life" (2025). Faculty Publications. 59.
https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/humansci_facultypubs/59
