Sex differences in the association between social capital and healthcare use—Results from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE)

Abstract

Females and males frequently report substantial differences in social capital indicators and may use healthcare distinctly. Nevertheless, the potential effect of sex on the relation between social capital and healthcare use remains unclear. This study aims to quantify the association between different indicators of individuals' social capital and healthcare use, according to sex. Data were retrieved from the Sixth Wave of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE), which was conducted in 2015, and included 68,188 participants from 18 countries. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were computed using logistic regression. Overall, males and females with smaller social networks, those who live alone or with any other relatives besides their partners, and those whose first close confidant was a family member or a neighbour reported fewer contacts with medical doctors or nurses, as well as with dentists or dental hygienists. Amongst females, participation in educational or training courses (AOR = 1.67, 95%CI:1.40–2.00; p for interaction = 0.035) and sport, social or any other club (AOR = 1.79, 95%CI:1.58–2.02; p for interaction = 0.043) was associated with a more frequent contact with dentists or dental hygienists. Females who participated in volunteer or charity work (AOR = 0.76, 95%CI:0.64–0.91; p for interaction = 0.042) and political or community-related organisations (AOR = 0.72, 95%CI:0.52–1.00; p for interaction = 0.030) were less likely to report the use of polypharmacy. This outcome was more frequently observed amongst females who referred feelings of severe loneliness (AOR = 1.44, 95%CI:1.22–1.68; p for interaction < 0.001). Social capital is associated with healthcare use distinctively amongst males and females. Increasing opportunities for social participation may improve healthcare use, particularly amongst females. © 2022 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.