ABSTRACT
A health disparity is a specific difference, variation, or inequality in some measure of health status, health care, or population health in which socially, economically, or geographically disadvantaged people experience worse health than their counterparts. A disparate population is one in which disease and/or death rates are significantly worse compared to the health or mortality status of the general or comparison population. Rural-urban health disparities may be present among older adults in a number of ways. One common subtype differences by rural-urban status can occur when rural older adults are at a relative health disadvantage compared to urban and suburban older adults. Another common subtype, moderation of other disparities by rural-urban status is when other types of disparities are more pronounced among older adults living in rural areas than those living in urban and suburban areas. That is, where an older adult lives moderates or amplifies existing demographic, social, or economic disparities.
