Mortality and disability trajectories above age 90 in the U.S. 1982-2004

Kenneth G. Manton, Duke University
Vicki L. Lamb, Duke University

In this paper we conduct a coupled life expectancy – active life expectancy analysis using National Long Term Care Survey (NLTCS) and linked Medicare data to produce estimates of life expectancy (LE) and active life expectancy (ALE) at various dates to examine the relative rate of change in total LE and ALE over time to see the effects of improvements in elderly health and longevity. We will focus attention to the changes in LE and ALE for persons aged 85 years and older, and mortality patterns at extreme (i.e., age 95 to 110) ages.