Regional Disparity of Physical Function Limitation Among Older Adults in Thailand.

ABSTRACT

Thailand was among the first to introduce a universal healthcare coverage among low- and middle-income countries but, regional disparities remain in the health status of people. Using the 2016 Population Change and Well-being in the Context of Ageing Societies, a nationally-representative survey, the prevalence of having limitations in physical function activities, instrumental activities of daily living, or activities of daily living were identified to estimate how each was associated with region of residence, sociodemographic and health behaviour and conditions. It was observed that living in Bangkok was associated with having limitations in any form than the other four regions of the country where generally the socioeconomic status of its older population is lower. Although higher prevalence of functional status was consistently observed in Bangkok, older people in the rural areas have a disadvantage in healthcare because of lower socioeconomic capacity and less access to healthcare facilities.