Codes and Frequencies
Description
For persons who completed an assistive devices questionnaire in 1990 or persons in the Disability Supplement (NHIS-D) in 1994 and 1995, MOBILAIDYN reports whether or not the respondent uses any special equipment for getting around. The special equipment the person was asked to consider includes the following:
- Crutches;
- A cane;
- A walker;
- A manual or electric wheelchair;
- A scooter;
- Medically prescribed shoes (1994 and 1995 only); or
- Any other aid for getting around (1990 only).
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.
Comparability
This variable is comparable between 1994 and 1995. Changes in question wording may somewhat limit comparability between the 1990 sample and subsequent years. In 1990, the question is open ended and permits the respondent to choose from a list of mobility aids or specify that any other mobility aid is used. In 1994 and 1995, the question is closed and the respondent may only select from a cane, crutches, walker, medically prescribed shoes, a wheelchair, or a scooter. Any other mobility aid is not noted in 1994 or 1995.
Universe
- 1990: Persons with a completed assistive devices questionnaire.
- 1994-1995: Persons in the NHIS-D Phase I sample.
Availability
- 1990, 1994-1995
