Changes in social support in relation to seniors' use of home care

Abstract

Objectives: This article examines seniors' entry into government-supported home care in relation to changes in levels of social support and in living arrangements.

Data source: The analysis is based on longitudinal data from the household component of the first two cycles of the National Population Health Survey, conducted by Statistics Canada in 1994/95 and 1996/97. Data from a sample of 2,044 people aged 65 or older who were followed prospectively were weighted to represent 2.7 million household-dwelling seniors.

Analytical techniques: Descriptive data were produced using bivariate frequencies. A multiple logistic regression model was used to examine associations between home care entry and changes in levels of social support and in living arrangements, while controlling for demographic and health-related factors.

Main results: Among people aged 65 or older who did not receive government-supported home care in 1994/95, an estimated 7% (192,000) were receiving these services in 1996/97. Changes in social support and in living arrangements between 1994/95 and 1996/97 were significantly associated with home care entry.