Preferences for Receipt of Care Among Community-Dwelling Adults

Abstract

Preferences for long-term care alternatives include both place of care and persons to provide care. In this analysis, these elements are separated for mature adults (N-1503, ages 40-70) regarding future care needs. Most adults preferred care in home/community settings by kin or non-kin, with few deeming nursing homes acceptable. Demographics and personal knowledge, experience, and expectations were marginally likely to influence preferences; males were more likely to prefer care in paid/professional settings. Women, who more often expressed preference for kin/home care, face demographic trends reducing available female kin who might be caregivers.

Key Words:

• Long-term care
• attitudes toward housing
• family care-giving
• preferences and planning