Correlates of Formal Support Service Use among Dementia Caregivers

Background: Informal caregivers for persons with dementia frequently report needing assistance, yet formal support service use has been low. Methods: To better understand factors associated with service use, correlates of self-reported service use (e.g., support groups, family mediation, family leave, classes/trainings, and respite care) among dementia caregivers were assessed. The National Poll on Healthy Aging conducted a nationally representative web-based survey of adults aged 50–80 (N = 2,131) using Ispos' KnowledgePanel®. Results: 148 reported caregiving for an adult with memory loss [61.5% female; 25% nonwhite, 54.1% aged 50–64]. Multivariable logistic regression analyzes assessed caregiver and care recipient characteristics associated with service use within the prior year. Nearly 25% of caregivers used at least one service. Caregiver characteristics associated with greater likelihood of service use included not working [7.5 OR; 2.73, 20.62 CI]; income <$30,000/year [5.9 OR; 1.27, 27.17 CI]; and residing in Western US [7.5 OR; 2.73, 20.62 CI]. Ability of care recipient to be left alone safely for only three hours or less [5.1 OR; 1.66, 15.46 CI] was associated with greater likelihood of use. Support service use remains low. Conclusions: Findings suggest need to consider caregivers' employment status, income, and geographical location in service design and implementation.