Codes and Frequencies
Description
FLCARRYYN reports whether the person has difficulty lifting or carrying something as heavy as 10 pounds. Please see Comparability and Universe tabs for changes in universe and question wording between samples.
In 1994 and 1995, this variable is part of the Disability Supplement (NHIS-D) that collects information on disability. NHIS-D included two household interviews: in Phase I all members of sample families were screened for any indication of disability; in Phase II persons with any indication of disability were followed-up for additional information. Phase I includes sensory, communication, and mobility problems; health conditions; activities of daily living and independent activities of daily living; functional limitations; mental health; services and benefits; special health needs of children; early child development; education; relationship to respondent; and perceived disability. Phase II includes four Disability Followback Survey (DFS) questionnaires: one for children, one for adults, one for elderly persons (69 years of age and over) without any indication of disability (also called the Supplement on Aging or SOA; only in 1994), and one for persons with a history of polio.
FLCARRYYN is part of a series of variables initiated in 1984 dealing with functional limitations.
Comparability
Changes in universe and question wording limit comparability between samples.
In 1984, sample persons ages 55 and older were first asked if he or she has any difficulty lifting or carrying something as heavy as 25 pounds by himself or herself and not using aids. Persons who replied "Yes" (FLCARRY25YN = 2) were then asked if they have any difficulty lifting or carrying something as heavy as 10 pounds, by themselves and without using aids.
In 1991, sample persons ages 18 and older were asked, "Because of any physical or mental condition, do you have difficulty lifting and carrying something as heavy as 10 lbs., such as a full bag of groceries."
In 1994 and 1995, the universe included persons ages 18 and older in the National Health Interview Survey-Disability Survey (NHIS-D) Phase I sample. The question reports whether the person has "any difficulty lifting something as heavy as 10 pounds, such as a full bag of groceries." Unlike previous years, reporting in 1994 and 1995 was done by a household respondent. Persons who are not the household respondent were reported by proxy.
Universe
- 1984: Sample persons age 55+ who have difficulty carrying 25 pounds.
- 1991: Sample persons age 18+.
- 1994-1995: Persons age 18 and older in the NHIS-D Phase I sample.
Availability
- 1984, 1991, 1994-1995
Weights
- 1984, 1991 : SAMPWEIGHT
- 1994-1995 : SUPP3WT
