Perceived everyday discrimination among older adults in India: National prevalence and associated factors in 2017-2018

Abstract

The study aimed to estimate the prevalence and correlates of perceived everyday discrimination (PED) among older adults in a national population survey in India. The sample included 52,933 older adults (≥50 years) from a cross-sectional national community-dwelling survey in India in 2017-2018. PED was assessed with the Everyday Discrimination Scale (short version). Results indicate that the prevalence of PED was 17.3%, 17.0% among women, and 17.8% among men. In the adjusted logistic regression analysis, food insecurity, scheduled tribes, other backward classes, and functional disability were positively associated with PED, while higher subjective socioeconomic status, Christians and Sikhs were negatively associated with PED. In addition, in unadjusted analysis, no schooling and having a chronic condition were positively associated with PED. Age, sex, marital status and residence status were not associated with PED. Almost one in five older adults in India experienced PED, and several associated factors were identified that may be targeted to reduce PED.