Description

SPECSHOE indicates whether the person used special shoes at the time of the interview. Please see Comparability and Universe tabs for changes in universe and question wording between samples.

Comparability

Changes in universe affect comparability between samples.

In 1969, 1977, 1979 and 1980 this question was asked of all persons.

In 1994 and 1995, this question was asked of persons in the Disability Supplement (NHIS-D) who uses a mobility aid to get around (MOBILAIDYN).

In 2008, the inquiry referred only to sample adults ages 18 and older.

In all years this question is part of a series of questions on the use of special mobility aids.

Along with changes in the universe, the presence of proxy reporting in 1969, 1977, 1979, 1980 1990, 1994 and 1995, but not in 2008, could affect responses. In the earlier years, a respondent representing the family could answer this question for other adult family members. In 2008, except in rare cases where disability precluded self-reporting, sample adults themselves answered the question. Although self-reporting is likely to be more accurate than proxy reporting, proxy reporting for a variable such as SPECSHOE is likely to be accurate because of the visibility of the aid to other household members.

Changes in wording may affect comparability between samples. In 1969, 1977, 1979 and 1980, interviewers asked about the use of, "special shoes." In 1994 and 1995, interviewers asked about, "Medically prescribed shoes." In 2008, interviewers asked about, "Medically prescribed shoes or orthotics." These terms may have a different meanings for respondents.

Universe

Availability

• 1969, 1977, 1979-1980, 1994-1995, 2008

Weights

• 1969, 1979-1980 : PERWEIGHT
• 2008 : SAMPWEIGHT
• 1994-1995 : SUPP3WT