Socioeconomic status and morbidity in the last years of life

Objectives. This study evaluated the effect of socioeconomic status, as cha racterized by level of education, on morbidity and disability in the last y ears of life. Methods. The analysis used data from the National Health Interview Survey ( 1986-1990), with mortality follow-up through December 1991. Results. Among 10 932 decedents 50 years or older at baseline interview, ed ucational attainment was inversely associated with long-term limitation of activity, number of chronic conditions, number of bed days, and days of sho rt hospital stay during the year preceding the interview. Conclusions. Decedents with higher socioeconomic status experienced lower m orbidity and disability and better quality of life even in their last years of life.