Demographic and socioeconomic factors affecting relative poverty level of older adults in Turkiye

Abstract

Background As Turkiye's older adult population grows rapidly, poverty among older adults has become a pressing social issue. This study aims to guide policymakers by examining the sociodemographic and economic factors influencing poverty levels among older adults. Methods Data from the Income and Living Conditions Survey (ILCS) of the Turkish Statistical Institute (TurkStat) were utilized in this study. Poverty thresholds were set at 40% and 50% of median household income, categorizing households into three distinct poverty levels. Accordingly, a generalized ordered logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore factors impacting poverty among older adults. Results Variables such as marital status, education level, age, gender, household size, homeownership, and social assistance usage were found to have significant relationships with relative poverty. Older adults, especially those aged 75 and older, exhibit a higher poverty risk. Moreover, older adults living in Turkiye's eastern regions experience higher poverty levels compared to those in the western regions. Conclusion Policies aiming to reduce poverty among older adults should not be limited to financial aids but should also adopt multidimensional approaches that improve older adults' access to healthcare services and strengthen social security networks. The high poverty risk in Turkiye's eastern regions and among individuals with lower education levels underscores the importance of targeted social policies that account for regional disparities. Policies addressing older adults should incorporate flexible solutions based on household structure, prioritize health issues, and enhance community support. In this context, it is recommended to develop comprehensive social support programs involving local governments and non-governmental organizations.