Examining a Low Socioeconomic Status Group that Lives Longer than Expected

The correlation between socioeconomic status and life expectancy is well established, a part of a web of connections that include intelligence, education, lifestyle choices, use of medical services, air pollution, and wealth. Why does a higher socioeconomic status add a few years to life expectancy? That is the question, and in formulating a reasonable hypothesis it is always interesting to find groups that buck the trend. Here, for example, researchers examine a population in which low socioeconomic status individuals live for longer than is the case in the general population. I can't say that the focus on community by the researchers is much of an answer, however, as it only raises exactly the same question, one step removed from socioeconomic status: what exactly about community affects life span? Almshouses provide affordable community housing for local people in housing need. They are generally designed around a courtyard to provide a 'community spirit', that is synonymous with the almshouse movement. They offer independent living but provide friendship and support when needed. Analysing up to 100 years' worth of residents' records from various almshouses in England, the research suggests that living in these communities can reduce the negative impact on health and social wellbeing which is commonly experienced by the older population in lower socioeconomic groups, particularly those individuals who are living in isolation. The results are very encouragin...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs