Correlates of Formal Support Service Use among Dementia Caregivers. Issue 2 (17th February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Feldman, Sara J.; Solway, Erica; Kirch, Matthias; Malani, Preeti; Singer, Dianne; Roberts, J. Scott
• Is Part Of: Journal of gerontological social work. Volume 64:Issue 2(2021)
• Page Start: 135
• Page End: 150
• Publication Date: 2021-02-17
• Subjects: Caregiving -- health care policy -- social support -- home and community-based services -- Alzheimer's disease; Social work with older people -- United States -- Periodicals; Geriatrics -- Periodicals; 362.6
• DOI: 10.1080/01634372.2020.1816589
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0163-4372

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Informal caregivers for persons with dementia frequently report needing assistance, yet formal support service use has been low. To better understand factors associated with service use, correlates of self-reported service use (e.g., support groups, family mediation, family leave, classes/trainings, and respite care) among dementia caregivers were assessed. The National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted a nationally representative web-based survey of adults aged 50–80 (N = 2, 131) using Ispos' KnowledgePanel®; 148 reported caregiving for an adult with memory loss [61.5% female; 25% nonwhite, 54.1% aged 50–64]. Multivariable logistic regression analyzes assessed caregiver and care recipient characteristics associated with service use within the prior year. Nearly 25% of caregivers used at least one service. Caregiver characteristics associated with greater likelihood of service use included not working [7.5 OR; 2.73, 20.62 CI]; income <$30, 000/year [5.9 OR; 1.27, 27.17 CI]; and residing in Western US [7.5 OR; 2.73, 20.62 CI]. Ability of care recipient to be left alone safely for only three hours or less [5.1 OR; 1.66, 15.46 CI] was associated with greater likelihood of use. Support service use remains low. Findings suggest need to consider caregivers' employment status, income, and geographical location in service design and implementation.