Description

For persons who need help or use special equipment when walking in 1979 and 1980, and for sample persons age 18 and older who have difficulty walking in 1991, LAWALKNHELP reports whether she/he needs help from another person when walking.

This variable was introduced in 1979 as 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 the universe reduce comparability over time. In 1979 and 1980, this question was asked of all persons who have difficulty walking. Beginning in 1991, it was asked of sample persons age 18 and older who have difficulty walking. Please see the Universe tab for more details.

In addition, slight changes in the survey wording reduce comparability over time. In 1979-1980 the question stated "receive or need help," whereas in 1991 it only stated "need help." See the Survey Text tab for more details. Because of these changes, researchers should use caution in making comparisons across years.

Universe

Availability

• 1979-1980, 1991

Weights

• 1979-1980 : PERWEIGHT
• 1991 : SAMPWEIGHT