This study aimed to identify the association between socioeconomic characteristics and mobility among the community-dwelling elderly in Beijing.
The samples were 468 community-dwelling independent persons 60 years of age or older living in Xicheng, Beijing. (117 males and 351 females. Age:70±7, range 60-88) We measured physical parameters, mobility and asked about their socioeconomic characteristics using questionnaire. The physical parameters included height, weight, body mass index, and leg length. Moving abilities were determined by Good Walker's Index (Kenkyakudo) that comprised 10 meter walking time, maximum length of a step, and 40 cm-staircase steps. Balance ability was measured by tandem gait. Socioeconomic characteristics we measured included monthly income, past occupation, and family structure. We also asked co-morbid diseases.
We found a significant negative correlation between the age and the mobility. Males in the highest income group with a monthly income of more than 1,700 Chinese dollars had in average larger body mass index and longer 10m walking time than the males in the other groups (p<0.05). Females with a monthly income of 300 Chinese dollars or less did worse in 40 cm-staircase stepping (p<0.05) and tandem gait (p<0.05). In addition, we found that the past occupation in female has a significant association with maximum length of a stepping, 40cm-staircase step, and tandem gait. Both the group of high-level white-collar workers with high income and the group of the low-income unemployed had lower ability in these measures when compared to other group.
We consider that an appropriate physical education will be necessary that takes into account the difference of socioeconomic characteristics in China.
