Background: Population ageing in China calls for evidence-based solutions, especially in terms of fulfilling long-term care needs among frail older adults. Respite services are identified as effective resources for alleviating care-giver burden and promoting the wellbeing of both older adults and their family care-givers. However, respite care is often under-used in China. Objectives: This research aimed to examine factors associated with intention to use respite services among informal care-givers in Shanghai, mainland China.