Codes and Frequencies
Description
FLWALK3BYN reports if the person has difficulty walking a quarter of a mile, or about 3 city blocks. 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, sample persons ages 55 and older were asked if they have any difficulty walking for a quarter mile, or about two or three blocks, 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 walking a quarter mile -- about 3 city blocks?"
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 walking a quarter of a mile -- about 3 city blocks." 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+.
- 1991: Sample adults age 18+.
- 1994-1995: Persons aged 18 years and older in the NHIS-D Phase I sample.
Availability
- 1984, 1991, 1994-1995
Weights
- 1984, 1991 : SAMPWEIGHT
- 1994-1995 : SUPP3WT
