Abstract:
In less developed countries, both traditional and non-traditional methods
of mortality estimation have not been successful in providing complete and
accurate information on mortality. To substitute these methods
Demographers have tried to develop indirect methods of mortality
estimation. For estimating adult mortality two methods based on
orphanhood data and widowhood data are being developed. There is a fair
literature on the theoretical background and practical application of these
methods and by critically reviewing this scattered literature, the suitability
and applicability of them can be assessed. The information for the method
of widowhood can be collected by asking the simple question “Is your first
husband/ wife alive”. The proportion can be converted to life table
probabilities using model schedules of mortality, fertility, and nuptiality.
The robustness of the method depends largely of the assumptions of the
method. Some assumptions are not crucial. However the assumption on the
independent of the mortality risks of respondent and spouse should be
examined critically. Further development of the method should be carried
out using computer simulation rather than depending on plausible
estimates achieved by application of the method.
