The Changing Caregiving Networks of Older Adults

Abstract

One of the dominant features of caregiving networks, their propensity to change over time, continues to be incompletely described and inadequately understood. The purpose of this study is to illuminate the complex patterns of change that shape the evolving caregiving networks of older adults. Using data from the Longitudinal Study of Aging (LSOA), a transition matrix approach is used to describe the changes older adults experience in their caregiving arrangements over time. These caregiving networks are characterized by both stability and change. At any given time, most elders are able to live independently without the help of a caregiver. The caregiving network, once activated, appears to be characterized by a great deal of change in care configurations. Finally, beyond a certain threshold off frailty, extensive care is required in either a community or an institutional setting. Variation in transitions by age, gender, race, and place of residence are examined.