1.3.3 Significance of Study

This study applies a perspective of multiple etiology in accordance with causal distance to health to analyze the relationship between distal, mid-range, proximal factors and the health of older citizens. There is a knowledge gap in the understanding of SES-health and its mechanism among elderly people in Asian countries. Furthermore, the studies in Japan and China can provide a deep insight into differences in developing and developed Asian countries. Thus, the study may bridge the gap by using population-based data.

In addition to academic significance, there is practical significance. From the microscopic view, examining predictors of health status and mortality is helpful to improve quality of life for elderly people and lighten burdens for their caregivers; from the macroscopic view, identifying the mediating effects of personal behaviors on health status and mortality is helpful to establish cost-economical policy to preventive care and promote health.