Epidemiology of Disability in the Oldest Old: Methodologic Issues and Preliminary Findings

Little is known about the health problems of the fastest-growing segment of the population. Three major community-based studies present prevalence information on physical and mental disabilities among the oldest old. These data also illustrate the limitations of interpretations in cross-sectional studies, and emphasize the value of prospective investigations of populations aged 85 and older. Although more costly and time-consuming, such prospective longitudinal studies are indispensable to sound policy planning.

Author(s): Joan C. Cornoni-Huntley; Daniel J. Foley; Lon R. White; Richard Suzman; Lisa F. Berkman; Denis A. Evans; Robert B. Wallace

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Volume 63, Issue 2 (pages 350–376)
Published in 1985