Stratification of Nutritional Experiences Among Older Adults Within and Across Countries

Carmen Ng , Emory University

I examine within- and between-country nutritional disparities among older adults in China, Ghana, India, Mexico, Russia, and South Africa using the Study on global AGEing and adult health (SAGE). Using country-specific partial proportional odds models, I analyze the patterns of BMI categories along various dimensions. While the prevalence of BMI categories varies by country, development-related characteristics are generally related to BMI category in a similar way – urban-living, educated, and wealthier individuals are typically more likely to be in a higher BMI category. However, there are some exceptions that corroborate findings in more-developed countries. And indeed, a pooled partial proportional odds model which includes gross domestic product per capita interactions makes the case for intertwining processes of development and the nutrition transition. An important consideration for nutrition policy and program implementation is that resources need to target appropriate population segments, and that such targeted segments might change over time.

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 Presented in Session 6. Health & Mortality & Aging