Dr. Boniface et Mj. Denham, FACTORS INFLUENCING THE USE OF COMMUNITY-HEALTH AND SOCIAL-SERVICES BY THOSE AGED 65 AND OVER, Health & social care in the community, 5(1), 1997, pp. 48-54
Citations number
19
Categorie Soggetti
Public, Environmental & Occupation Heath","Social Work
Interview data collected in a 1990/91 health and life-style survey is
used to investigate in those aged 65 years and over the relationship t
o the use of community health and social services of age, health statu
s and social and economic factors. One thousand eight hundred and fort
y-one respondents were included in the study. Contacts with general pr
actitioners (GPs), district nurses and home helps and use of 'meals on
wheels', day centres for elderly people and lunch clubs were related
to age, chronic illnesses, gender, mental well-being, living alone, in
come and social class. Age and chronic illness were strongly related t
o the use of all services. A distinctive pattern of service use was fo
und for particular chronic illnesses. Musculoskeletal conditions were
most strongly related. Significant relationships between mental well-b
eing, living alone, gender, income and social class remained after the
effects of age and chronic illness were removed. Consideration is giv
en to the implications for those who plan community health and social
services.