Exploring the Differences in Physical Health of Elderly People in Urban and Rural Areas of China and Their Influencing Factors: Dynamic Changes from 2011 to 2020
Description
In the context of global population aging and China's urban-rural dual structure, the health disparities among the elderly in urban and rural areas have drawn wide attention. This study used data from the CHARLS database from 2011 to 2020. By employing t - tests, the Cox model, and multiple logistic regression analysis, it comprehensively explored the health differences among urban and rural elderly and their influencing factors. The results showed that gender, marital status, education, smoking habits, social activities, and household expenditure significantly affected the health of the elderly. Generally, males, married people, the highly educated, non - smokers, those engaged in social activities, and those with higher household expenditures had better health. From 2011 to 2020, the overall health of the elderly improved, with a more significant improvement in urban areas. Although the health of urban elderly was better than that of rural elderly in 2020, the gap was narrowing. These findings provide a basis for formulating health intervention strategies for the elderly.