Codes and Frequencies
Description
FLMEALYN reports if the person has difficulty preparing his or her own meals due to a health problem. 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.
This variable is part of a series of variables related to the difficulty of doing various activities due to a physical/mental condition, the use of help from others to carry on such activities, and the number of years this difficulty has persisted. For related variables, please use the IPUMS NHIS search function and drop-down menus.
Comparability
Changes in universe and question wording limit comparability between samples.
In 1984, this question was asked of sample persons ages 55 and older. In 1986, this question was asked of persons ages 65 and older. In 1991, this question was asked of sample persons ages 18 and older.
In 1994 and 1995, this question was asked of persons ages 18 and older whose household respondent did not refuse to complete the National Health Interview Survey-Disability Survey (NHIS-D) Phase I questionnaire, and who were not reported as needing any help or supervision with any instrumental activities of daily life (IADLs).
Changes in question wording also limit comparability between samples. In 1984 and 1986, persons were asked if they have difficulty with this activity "because of a health or physical problem." In 1991, persons were asked if they have difficulty with this activity "because of any physical or mental condition." In 1994 and 1995, the household respondent was asked if the person has difficulty with this activity "because of a physical, mental, or emotional problem."
Universe
- 1984: Sample persons age 55+.
- 1986: Persons age 65+.
- 1991: Sample persons age 18+.
- 1994-1995: Persons age 18+ in the NHIS-D Phase I sample who did not get help or supervision for any instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) because of physical, mental or emotional problem(s).
Availability
- 1984, 1986, 1991, 1994-1995
Weights
- 1986 : PERWEIGHT
- 1984, 1991 : SAMPWEIGHT
- 1994-1995 : SUPP3WT