Science University Research Symposium (SURS)

Relationships Among the Consequences of Poverty and Aging

Publication Date

Fall 11-15-2023

College

Sciences and Mathematics, College of

Department

Psychological Science, Department of

SURS Faculty Advisor

Dr. Michael Oliver

Presentation Type

Oral Presentation

Abstract

The experience of poverty burdens individuals in innumerable ways. Along with great financial strain, individuals living in poverty may witness additional consequences pertaining to psychological and physical health. Education, which is a protective factor of normal aging and brain health, may be a restricted resource for impoverished individuals. It has been observed that poverty diminishes an individual's preparedness for school, impacting various facets such as health, home environment, and their educational experience (Ferguson et al., 2007). In addition to education, food access may also be limited for individuals living in poverty and financially insecure environments. Though previous studies have examined the relationships among poverty and these previously stated variables, there is limited literature which examines all of these variables–education, income, and food access–in one study. The following study seeks to examine the relationships among these three variables by analyzing the census data of six Tennessee counties: Wilson, Williamson, Sumner, Rutherford, Robertson, Cheatham, and Davidson. The study’s results indicate that as individuals experience limitations in food access, low educational attainment becomes increasingly prevalent. In addition, our results indicate that as instances of low educational attainment increase, median income decreases. In the face of vast literature surrounding poverty, we hope this study’s findings will motivate further research regarding the consequences of low socioeconomic status. Upon receiving these results, we expect that individuals will gain a newfound awareness of the complexities of poverty and understand the importance of taking preventive measures.

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