Economic Analysis of Health Inequality Among the Elderly in Ghana

Self-Reported Health Inequalities among Older Adults in Saudi Arabia

Considering the rising life expectancy, the growing population of older adults poses challenges in providing adequate healthcare services. Self-reported health is an important indicator of overall health, predicting morbidity and mortality. This study investigated self-reported health inequalities among older adults in Saudi Arabia and the underlying factors contributing to establishing such inequalities. The study utilized data from the 2018 Saudi Family Health Survey, focusing on 2023 respondents aged ≥60 years with complete data. Univariate, bivariate, and multivariate logistic regression analyses were employed to explore socio-economic factors linked to health inequalities. Additionally, concentration curves and indices were used to assess the magnitude of health inequalities among older adults. The findings indicate a higher prevalence of self-reported poor health among respondents aged ≥70 years and those with chronic diseases. Age, education, income level, marital status, and insurance coverage were other factors significantly linked to reporting poor health. Inequality analysis revealed a concentration of poor health among less educated individuals (concentration index = -0.261, p < 0.01). Both income- and education-based indices highlighted a concentration of poor health among men with lower income and education levels. Addressing healthcare inequalities among older adults requires targeted policy efforts, focusing on those aged ≥70, unmarried individuals, those without insurance coverage, those with chronic illnesses, and those with lower education levels. Targeted interventions for these groups can address their unique healthcare needs and promote equitable health outcomes.

Unmet Needs of Healthcare Services and Associated Factors among a Cohort of Ghanaian Adults: A Nationally Stratified Cross-Sectional Study Design

We estimated the prevalence of unmet needs of healthcare services (UNHS) and its associated factors among a cohort of older Ghanaian adults. World Health Organization (WHO) Study on Global AGEing and Adult Health for Ghana was used with a total of 4735 participants. Logistics regression analysis was performed using Stata 16 to assess associated factors. The overall UNHS was 3.7% (95% CI = 2.7-4.8) and the prevalence was significantly high amongst older adults aged 60 to 69 years (5.9%). Could not afford the healthcare (56.4%) was the main contender for UNHS. UNHS was influenced by; those aged 60 to 69 years [OR (95% CI) = 1.86 (1.19-2.91)]; no formal educational [aOR (95% CI) = 4.71 (1.27-17.38)], and no NHIS [OR (95% CI) = 1.78 (1.03-3.09)]. Participants needed care for joint pain (25.4%), and communicable diseases (19.1%). The inability to access healthcare was relatively higher for older adults more advanced in age, with low education, and for those without health insurance. Health system strengthening including financial protection by expanding the National Health Insurance Scheme to all Ghanaians in line with Ghana's Universal Health Coverage Roadmap would reduce the unmet healthcare needs of older adults.