Impact of Gender and Geographical Disparities on Health of Older Adults in Sri Lanka

Gender and geographical disparities are distinct concepts, but their influence on health is not fully understood. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the impact of gender differences and geographic disparities on the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among middle-aged and elderly people in Sri Lanka. Utilising the data from the latest nationwide Sri Lanka Demographic and Health Survey, the study employed binary and multivariate logistic models to explore the effects of gender differences and geographical disparities on the prevalence of NCDs. After we controlled marital status, wealth, living arrangements, level of education, and unhealthy behaviour, the study finds a significant association between gender, geography, and NCD prevalence. Particularly, factors such as women's financial empowerment and rural residence have emerged as central determinants of health status among the middle-aged and elderly. In this context, the traditional male-female dichotomy does not accurately capture this gender inequality; policymakers need to consider social gender differences in formulating inclusive health interventions. Health disparities between urban and rural older adults are significant. Accordingly, after careful study of the NCD status among urban older adults, targeted health policy measures should be introduced. This study finding aligns with the social determinants of health theory while challenging the rural-urban health gradient theory, suggesting a ‘rural advantage'.