Description

For sample persons age 55 and older in 1984, and age 65 and older in 1986, LABOWLEQ reports if she/he has a colostomy or other device to help control bowel movements. If asked, the interviewers are instructed to give the following definition for colostomy/other devices: "Surgical openings and/or devices used to aid in bowel movements when the person has lost natural control of these functions through illness, disability, surgery, or other causes. Do NOT include enemas or suppositories as devices."

This variable is part of a series of variables related to the difficulty of doing various activities due to a physical/mental health 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 survey design (e.g., quarters in which the supplement was collected) may affect raw frequencies, but do not affect comparability of the variable. As always, data users should use the prescribed IHIS weights.

Universe

Availability

• 1984, 1986

Weights

• 1986 : PERWEIGHT
• 1984 : SAMPWEIGHT