Age differences in question and response order effects

Much of what we know about the living conditions, health care needs, or financial situation of older people is based on self-reports from survey interviews. However, numerous studies have shown that self-reports are highly context dependent. Minor changes in question or response format can result in major differences in the reported behaviors or opinions (Schuman & Presser, 1981; see Sudman, Bradburn, & Schwarz, 1996, for a comprehensive review). This can lead researchers and the public to draw dramatically different substantive conclusions about the opinions or behaviors under investigation.