Mortality and Health Status among the Elderly in Latin America

Roberto Ham-Chande, El Colegio de la Frontera Norte

Contribution of changes in mortality to aging is discussed by 'variable r' procedures applied to cohort-like mortality for the period 1940-2050. For most countries of the region the bulk of population growth at ages above 60 during the period 1980-2025 is attributable to the decline of mortality that took place starting in 1940. This fact influence levels and patterns of mortality, health status and functional limitations among the elderly. First, we estimate patterns of adult and old age mortality for 1950-2000, identifying changes in mortality above ages 40 and 60 for twenty countries. Life tables are adjusted for completeness of death registration and using model patterns. Patterns and levels of mortality at old ages are related to contribution of changes in mortality at younger ages to the speed of growth of the older population. We provide estimations on Active Life Expectancy for seven countries, adult mortality differentials between-countries and inequalities.