Active Life Expectancy and Functional Health Transitions among Filipino Older People

Grace T. Cruz, University of the Philippines
Yasuhiko Saito, Nihon University
Josefina Natividad, University of the Philippines

Using data from the 1996 Philippine Elderly Study and the 2000 Panel Study, the study employed methodological developments on active life expectancy to provide a benchmark information on the quality of remaining life of the older people in the country. Findings suggest a significant age and gender pattern with the females more likely to outlive their male counterparts although they can expect to live a greater part of that life in a state of physical disability. Heterogeneity is likewise demonstrated across the SES with the better educated anticipating a longer life but poorer health while rural residents can anticipate to live longer lives and relatively more years in active state. Results also show a fair amount of movements across health states with a complex of socio-economic and demographic factors showing significant risk factors. Recovery from inactive state was notable with self-assessed health playing a significant positive effect.