Abstract
Using the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS) data from 2011 to 2015 and bivariate ordered probit regression models, this study investigates the determinants of utilization ability and the effects on the functionings of Chinese elders based on the capability approach. The results suggest that three factors may affect the Chinese elders’ utilization ability (Basic Activities of Daily Living and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living). These are personal factors, like physical conditions or educational attainment; social factors like gender roles or the healthcare systems; and environmental factors, like residential environment. It is also shown that the utilization ability significantly affects the functionings of Chinese elders, like being in work, participating in social activity, and providing child care. Finally, it is found that there are inter-group differences between the rural elder group and the urban elder group in the determination of utilization ability and the effect on elder functionings in China.