Changes in Disability, Severe Disability, and Dependence in Spain (1986-2020).

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

This study examines changes in disability, severe disability, and dependence in Spain between 1986 and 2020, highlighting implications for long-term care planning.

Methods

We analyzed microdata from four nationally representative disability surveys (1986, 1999, 2008, 2020) and applied the Sullivan method to estimate disability-free, severe-disability-free, and autonomous life expectancy at ages 6, 45, 65, and 85 years, stratified by sex.

Results

Disability-free life expectancy increased in both sexes, with slightly greater gains in men. However, years lived with severe disability and dependence also rose, especially among older adults. Women consistently lived longer but spent more years with disability and dependence than men. These patterns suggest a part

SUBMITTER: Casillas-Clot J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12515729 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature