Positive self-perceived health markers in the older adult population in Brazil

Objective: To analyze the demographic and socioeconomic determinants that can influence the positive self-perceived health of older adult people in Brazil. Methods: A quantitative and descriptive study using data from the Brazilian National Health Survey conducted in 2013. This survey constituted a weighted sample of 11.8 million older people living in Brazil. The outcome variable analyzed is self-perceived health, and was categorized as positive and negative. The independent variables contemplate three dimensions: sociodemographic, lifestyle and health aspects. The analyzes were presented as Odds Ratio obtained by applying the binary logistic regression model. Results: The results show, for both men and women, that having declared themselves white, not having chronic illnesses or functional disabilities, having a healthier lifestyle (never having smoked and having participated in religious social interaction activities more frequently) and higher levels of education contribute to the chances of a better perception of health being greater. Older people with complete high school and incomplete higher education were three times more likely to have a positive perception of health than those without complete elementary school. Conclusion: This study identified the social determinants of health of older persons and the relationship with a positive perception of health. Identifying and analyzing these associations are important points for the elaboration of specific public policies, aiming at equity and health promotion.