Preparation Dimensions and Styles in Long-Term Care

Abstract

Psychological effects of preparation for possible future care needs were examined in community dwelling elders. Two dimensionsof preparation (becoming aware of care needs and concrete planning) and four stylesof preparation (being an avoider, thinker, planner, and consenter) were investigated. Greater awareness of future care needs was related to more worry and depression and lower satisfaction with preparation; concrete planning was associated with less worry and depression and more satisfaction. Concrete planning buffered the effect of awareness on older adult's worrying, but not on depression and satisfaction. With regard to styles of preparation, seniors who thought about future care needs without finding a solution (thinkers) had the highest levels of worry and depression, and the lowest levels of satisfaction. In addition, individuals who had made concrete plans (planners) and who had adopted plans from confidants (consenters) had the highest levels of satisfaction with preparation.

Key Words:

• Long-term care
• old age
• planning
• future care needs
• coping
• psychological well-being