The impact of preventive behaviors on self-rated health, depression symptoms, and daily functioning among middle-aged and elderly Chinese: An empirical study

Abstract

Introduction With the intensifying issue of an aging population, the health of middle-aged and elderly individuals garners increased attention. Preventive behaviors are pivotal in enhancing life quality and extending healthy living. This study examines the effects of preventive behaviors on self-rated health, depression, and daily functioning among these populations. Materials and methods Drawing on data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), this research applies a panel ordered probability model to scrutinize the influence of preventive behaviors on health outcomes among middle-aged and elderly populations. It utilizes self-rated health, depression, and daily functioning as pivotal health indicators to assess the effects. Results Preventive behaviors exert a significant impact on self-assessed health and daily functioning among middle-aged and elderly populations. Engagement in social activities effectively reduces depression symptoms. Primary preventive measures, including physical and social activities, enhance health outcomes through medical consultations. Conversely, secondary preventive actions, such as undergoing physical examinations, facilitate early detection of diseases, enabling timely intervention and health advisories. It is noteworthy that individuals with higher incomes derive lesser benefits from these physical or social endeavors. Conclusion Sociodemographic determinants such as age, income, and educational attainment significantly modulate the efficacy of preventive behaviors on the health outcomes of middle-aged and elderly populations. This research underscores the pivotal role of physical examination services within primary healthcare frameworks and advocates for the tailoring of health promotion strategies to the accessible social needs and engagements of economically and educationally disadvantaged seniors.