A Comparison of the Caregiving Networks of Dependent Elderly Individuals Who Are Lucid and Those Who Are Demented

Abstract

Individuals who were demented were cared for mostly by members of the immediate household whereas those who were lucid received primarily extra-household assistance. Demented persons also received fewer hours of care from outside the household and from formal providers. It is argued that in cases of dementia, the household is likely to be the key unit of caregiving and adaptation. Implications of household insularity are discussed.