Work

Effects of Noncontributory Pensions on Older Adult Mortality in Rural Mexico

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: We study an unconditional cash transfer program aimed at alleviating rural poverty among older adults. Using death records and a triple difference design, we find a 5.5% reduction in mortality for women, mostly due to a decrease in non-cardiovascular related mortality, and inconclusive evidence for men. We explore mechanisms using income and expenditure surveys and a triple difference-in-discontinuities design. We find little evidence of significant changes in key hypothesized mechanisms, except for declines in employment and hours worked.

Source: The Journal of Human Resources

DOI: 10.3368/jhr.0225-14128r1

Authors: Felipe Menares, William H. Dow, Susan W. Parker, Emma Aguila, Soomin Ryu, Jorge Peniche

Institutions: Inter-American Development Bank, University of California, Berkeley, University of Southern California, University of Missouri

Language: English

Topic: Poverty, Education, and Child Welfare

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Funders: Agencia Nacional de Investigación y Desarrollo, National Institute on Aging