Determinants of the health and survival of the elderly: Suggestions from two different experiences — Italy and Israel

This study compares the health status and survival of the elderly in two countries, Italy and Israel. While both are developed Mediterranean countries, their degree of ageing, characteristic features of the elderly, health status and survival are different. The data are from two sample surveys and, for Israel, from a record linkage between survey and mortality data at five years remove. A preliminary analysis, using a multiple correspondence factorial analysis, highlighted a gradual change in living arrangements and socio-economic features as the population ages, which was only slightly associated with health conditions. In Israel, moreover, the Arab minority differs according to social conditions, living arrangements and health status. The determinants of health status and survival of the elderly in both countries were studied using as dependent variables; 1) self-perceived health status, 2) the frequency of medical examinations; 3) medical tests, for both countries and 4) (for Israel) deaths. Linear logistic models were constructed using, as explanatory variables, sex, age and living arrangements, a variable indicative of community level socio-economic and cultural conditions, two indicators describing individual socio-economic conditions and smoking habits. Thus it is possible to assess the impact of explanatory variables by comparing both subjective conditions and behaviour factors regarding medical care, with the unequivocal confirmation provided by death.