Which statement best explains why life expectancy is lower among minority elderly?

• A. Families of color have fewer resources in old age due to lower-paying jobs and less health insurance
• B. Genetic differences account for the gap
• C. Minority elders are more likely to live in rural areas
• D. They have greater access to social services

Answer: (A)

This question tests how economic resources and access to health care shape aging and longevity for minority groups. When families of color face lower wages and less health insurance, they have fewer resources to cover medical care, nutritious food, stable housing, and other factors that support long health. This leads to delayed or foregone care, poorer management of chronic conditions, more stress, and cumulative health disadvantages over time, which can shorten life expectancy in old age. The statement that best captures this is the one about fewer resources in old age due to lower-paying jobs and less health insurance, because it highlights the economic and coverage barriers that drive health outcomes. Genetics do not account for the majority of the gap, geography can influence access but isn’t the primary cause, and having greater access to social services would not explain a lower life expectancy.