Determinants of adult day center attendance among older adults with functional limitations

Abstract

Objective: To examine factors related to regularity of adult day center (ADC) attendance among seniors with functional limitations.

Methods: Using data collected as part of a larger study, we identified the proportion of scheduled days attended among 101 ADC users in Montréal and identified determinants of this attendance.

Results: More regular attendance was associated with previous profession of ADC participant or spouse in a sector other than health care, receiving formal help for activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living on days of expected ADC participation, participating for the whole day rather than half a day, lower participation in prevention and health-promotion activities, and lower caregiver burden among persons with cognitive impairments and higher caregiver burden among persons without cognitive impairments.

Discussion: To enhance ADC intervention effects, levels of participation should be maximized. Study findings suggest ways to promote more regular attendance.