Regional and sociodemographic inequalities in disability incidence

It is important to understand differences in rates of disability across England, particularly for healthcare planning and promoting healthy ageing that is fair for everyone.

Background

This project will use a large and detailed set of data that can show these differences, and the findings will have important implications for healthy ageing. Addressing regional and demographic (such as age, sex and ethnic background) inequalities can help people age as well as possible, and improve their quality of life.

Understanding inequalities is important for targeted health interventions/activities, efficient resource allocation and developing policies that support healthier ageing outcomes for all older people across England.

Aims and objectives

This project will look at how disability rates vary across different regions in England, as well as which factors (such as age, gender and socioeconomic status) are most linked with higher disability rates in these regions.

It will also consider if some health conditions or diseases are more common in regions with higher disability rates, and how they might be different across regions.

Methods

We will use a number of methods for this project, including using statistics, as well as looking at models of rates of disability.

We will also look at links between areas of England with high disability rates, and how common certain health conditions are in these areas.

Policy relevance

This will be relevant across many government departments. By showing regional and sociodemographic inequalities in disability rates, policymakers can take this into account to help the care sector be more resilient. It will also help with future demands on how resources are allocated.

Delivery dates

January 2024 – December 2024