A recent study examined the relationship between psychosocial factors and unmet needs among community-dwelling older adults receiving home-based aged care services.
In OECD member countries, 68% of individuals aged 65 and over who receive aged care opt for home-based services, reflecting a strong preference for in-home support among older adults. As the global population ages rapidly, the demand for formal home-based aged care services is on the rise, making it crucial to understand the care needs of community-dwelling older adults.
A recent study used a subsample from the National Survey of Disability, Ageing, and Carers to examine the relationship between psychosocial factors and unmet needs among community-dwelling older adults who have received or who expect to receive formal home-based aged care services. The study also evaluated the reasons for having any unmet needs among community-dwelling older Australians for formal home-based aged care.
Understanding these factors is essential for improving access to aged care services and addressing the unmet needs of community-dwelling older adults, ensuring they receive the support necessary to live independently and safely in their homes.
“Our findings suggested that community-dwelling older adults struggling with psychosocial issues (e.g., psychological distress and perceived social isolation), or experiencing limited informal assistance from their support networks might encounter more challenges in accessing formal aged care services. Future aged care reform needs to emphasize the importance of psychosocial needs and the support network of older adults to better address their unmet care needs” says Dr Yuchen Xie.
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