Factors Related to Self-Reported Health Status in Low Income Midlife Women

Abstract

Transition throughout midlife can affect women’s perception of their health status. Multiple factors are potentially related to self-reported health status (SRHS), but it was not clear what factors are related to SRHS for midlife women, especially those with low income. This study examined factors related to SRHS in low income midlife women over time. A multi-step linear regression of longitudinal Medicaid Managed Care (MMC) data (n = 310) from July 2000 through November 2006 was used. Participants completed SRHS at initial (baseline) enrollment into MMC (T1), with a second assessment completed 11 to 23 months later for those retaining MMC eligibility (T2). Results indicated that disability and number of medical conditions were the factors most related to SRHS. SRHS scores differed significantly between non-disabled and disabled women. For disabled women, SRHS improved significantly between T1 and T2 (p < .001), but not for non-disabled women. Those with lower SRHS scores used community agencies more often. Further studies of SRHS and health-related factors are needed as SRHS is frequently an indicator of population health. Greater evidenced-based knowledge of SRHS in midlife women will inform preventive interventions for this population.

KEYWORDS:

• disability
• health-related factors
• midlife
• self-reported health status
• socioeconomic status

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to acknowledge our partnership with the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department who provided MMC administration and public health clinical services during the years these study data were collected. The authors would also like to acknowledge the support of Dr. Cheryl Thompson, Dr. Susan Noble-Walker, and Dr. James Lynch as this study was completed.