The dynamics of the Brazilian income

This paper aims to measure the degree of income mobility in Brazil in the 1987-2005 period. To achieve that, we consider the axiomatic mobility approach and the dynamic tool suggested by Aebi et al. (1999). The transition probability matrix calculations and the mobility index indicate that Brazil has low intragenerational income mobility, suggesting that Brazilian social structure is relatively rigid.Income mobility; Transition probability matrix; Mobility indices

Estimating income mobility using census data: a probabilistic approach

This paper aims to measure the degree of income mobility in Brazil in the period from 1987 to 2005. To achieve that, it was considered the axiomatic mobility approach and the dynamic tool suggested by Aebi, Neusser and Steiner (1999). The transition probability matrix calculations and its mobility index indicate that Brazil presents low intergenerational income mobility, suggesting that Brazilian social structure is relatively rigid.Income mobility Transition probability matrix Mobility indices.

Profiles of physical activity biographies in relation to life and aging satisfaction in older adults: longitudinal findings

Background: While there is substantial evidence on the relationship between life satisfaction and present physical activity (PA), less is known about which specific PA biographies are associated with a high quality of life and aging satisfaction. Our objective was to identify classes of PA biographies that may be associated with life and aging satisfaction. Methods: In this longitudinal study, PA biographies were assessed retrospectively as a baseline, followed by assessments of life and aging satisfaction at six and twelve months in 418 adults aged 60–95. Subgroups with different PA biographies were identified using latent class analysis. Results: Four distinct PA biographies emerged: increasingly active (35%; n = 147); consistently active (25%; n = 103); consistently inactive (18%; n = 75); and decreasingly active (22%; n = 94). Being consistently active was related to life satisfaction (β = .17) and consistent inactivity was associated with aging dissatisfaction (β = −.20) when accounting for current PA levels. Conclusions: In addition to current PA, our findings emphasize the value of PA biographies for life and aging satisfaction, which could inform lifespan theories of PA and health promotion

Future Directions in the Study of Health Behavior among Older Adults

The study of health behaviors and fostering health-behavior change is an important endeavor even in old age. The aim of this viewpoint article is threefold. First, we use a broad perspective for the definition of health behaviors to capture all relevant aspects of health-behavior change in older adults. Particularly, we suggest a distinction between proximal (e.g., physical activity) and distal health behaviors (e.g., social participation). Second, we recommend a stronger orientation towards processes in order to study health behaviors and the design of health-behavior change interventions. Third, we review the advantages of a developmental perspective in health psychology. Future directions in the study of health behavior among older adults are discussed