Sex/Gender Disparities in Health Outcomes of Individuals With Long-term Disabling Conditions

Rehabil Psychol, 2019 · DOI: 10.1037/rep0000248 · Published: May 1, 2019

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the differences in health outcomes between men and women with long-term disabilities, focusing on physical function and emotional health. The research considers how social and biological factors intertwine to affect health, recognizing that gender roles and social determinants can influence physical and mental well-being. The findings aim to inform healthcare providers and policymakers to create tailored interventions that address the specific needs and vulnerabilities of subgroups within the disabled population, particularly middle-aged and older women.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

1,862 adults with long-term disabling conditions

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Women with long-term disabling conditions reported more severe fatigue and pain than men, even after adjusting for age and diagnosis.
2
Women aged 45-54 had significantly higher average PHQ-9 scores, indicating more depressive symptoms, compared to men of the same age.
3
Younger women had higher physical functioning scores than younger men, while older women had lower physical functioning scores than older men.

Research Summary

The study found age-specific associations between sex/gender and health outcomes among individuals with long-term disabling conditions. Women reported more severe fatigue and pain than men, and women aged 45-54 reported greater depressive symptoms. Younger women exhibited higher physical functioning compared to younger men, while older women showed lower physical functioning compared to older men, indicating a complex interaction between sex/gender, age, and physical health.

Practical Implications

Tailored Interventions

Develop healthcare interventions and policies that specifically address the unique needs and vulnerabilities of women with long-term disabilities, especially middle-aged and older women.

Interdisciplinary Research

Promote interdisciplinary research combining rehabilitation psychology, women's health, aging, disability studies, and population health to better understand the complex interplay of factors affecting health outcomes.

Address Social Determinants

Address broader social determinants of health, such as income inequality and access to healthcare, to reduce health disparities among women with disabilities.

Study Limitations

1
The study used a binary measure of gender, which does not capture the full spectrum of gender identities.
2
The sample was predominantly white, limiting the generalizability of the findings to other racial and ethnic groups.
3
The cross-sectional design limits the ability to determine causal relationships between sex/gender, age, and health outcomes.

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