Prevalence, Pattern, and Predictors of Multi-morbidity Among India’s Elderly Population

The coexistence of two or more chronic situations is defined as multi-morbidity, and it has been a priority affair for health policymakers and health professionals. This study aims to deliver a scientific and systematic analysis of the prevalence, pattern, and predictors of multi-morbidity in India using nationally representative Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) dataset. Bivariate and multivariate analyses have been applied to meet the study’s objectives. The results show that nearly 25% of respondents of each age group have multi-morbidity conditions. The prevalence of morbidity among females is slightly higher than men. Kerala, the most demographically advanced state, shows the highest prevalence of multi-morbidity and the lowest in Nagaland. Hypertension is the most prevalent disease among the Indian elderly population, followed by arthritis, diabetes. The results reveal that the likelihood of multi-morbidity is hugely determined by respondents’ age, marital status, sex, years of schooling, wealth, engagement in physical activity, and living arrangement. The study shows that the prevalence of multi-morbidity increases with the aging process. This study provides a more prominent and nationally representative insight into multi-morbidity in India. Understanding the sociodemographic differentials of multi-morbidity among the older adults in India is crucial to assist the policymakers and health personnel in a broader perspective.