Effects of Noncontributory Pensions on Older Adult Mortality in Rural Mexico

The Journal of Human Resources 2026 Open access

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Authors: Felipe Menares, William Dow, Susan W. Parker, Emma Aguila, Soomin Ryu, Jorge Peniche
DOI: 10.3368/jhr.0225-14128r1
Cited by: 1

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.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Poverty Education and Child Welfare Agricultural risk and resilience Healthcare Systems and Reforms

Publication details

Journal / source
The Journal of Human Resources
Publisher
University of Wisconsin Press
Volume
61
Issue
Supplement
Pages
S131–S161
Publication date
12 January 2026
Language
EN