P M A van Bilsen1, J P H Hamers, W Groot, C Spreeuwenberg. 1. School for Public Health and Primary Care, Department of Health Care and Nursing Science, Maastricht University, P.O. Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, The Netherlands. p.vanbilsen@zw.unimaas.nl
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To examine the use of community-based social services by elderly people at risk of institutionalization, who prefer to remain at home. METHODS: A study with a longitudinal design (measurements at two points in time) was conducted. RESULTS: One hundred and thirty-four elderly people (mean age=82 years) were interviewed twice. At baseline, 81 respondents indicated that they made use of at least one social service (60.4%). After 1 year the use of these services did not increase significantly (64.2%, p=0.53). Only two services (socio-cultural activities and restaurant facility) out of five services were used frequently. The respondents reported more autonomy and fewer feelings of loneliness after 1 year. These positive changes cannot be related to an increased use of services. DISCUSSION: Overall, the use of social services remained moderate. This raises questions about the need for these services, the possible barriers and the ability of these social services to contribute to de-institutionalization.
OBJECTIVE: To examine the use of community-based social services by elderly people at risk of institutionalization, who prefer to remain at home. METHODS: A study with a longitudinal design (measurements at two points in time) was conducted. RESULTS: One hundred and thirty-four elderly people (mean age=82 years) were interviewed twice. At baseline, 81 respondents indicated that they made use of at least one social service (60.4%). After 1 year the use of these services did not increase significantly (64.2%, p=0.53). Only two services (socio-cultural activities and restaurant facility) out of five services were used frequently. The respondents reported more autonomy and fewer feelings of loneliness after 1 year. These positive changes cannot be related to an increased use of services. DISCUSSION: Overall, the use of social services remained moderate. This raises questions about the need for these services, the possible barriers and the ability of these social services to contribute to de-institutionalization.