Through the Grey Prism: An Intersectional Analysis of Gender, Age, and Healthcare Inequities in Rural Multan, Pakistan

This study investigates gender-based health disparities among older individuals in rural Multan, Pakistan. The study's goals are to examine the impact of gender on health status, identify disparities in healthcare service accessibility across socioeconomic groups, and investigate the effects of ageing and dietary intake on health perceptions. Additionally, it identifies gender-specific barriers to healthcare utilisation and investigates the Impact of the social support system and external variables on health outcomes. Methodologically, a quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, utilising a structured interview schedule with 385 respondents aged 60–80 years. Data collection involved rigorous validity and reliability testing of a 66-item questionnaire administered in English and Urdu. Statistical analyses facilitated exploration of health disparities and predictors among elderly males and females. Significant health inequalities are influenced by demographic factors, including ageing, gender, education levels, occupation status, and socio-economic strata. The study underscores the impact of traditional mechanical and emotional gendered roles, limited healthcare access, and socio-economic constraints on health outcomes in the rural areas of Multan city.