Psychological Outcomes of Preparation for Future Care Needs

Abstract

Influences of four aspects of preparation for future care needs (becoming aware of the risk of needing future care, gathering information about care options, deciding on preferences, and concrete planning) on levels of worrying, depression, and satisfaction with preparations were investigated in 573 older German adults. Whereas becoming aware was associated with higher levels of worrying and depression, gathering information and concrete planning predicted lower levels of worrying and depression and higher levels of satisfaction with preparations. Three styles of coping with future care risks were identified: avoidance, thinking about future risks without planning, and concrete planning. Avoiders had lowest levels of worries and depression, whereas planners were most satisfied with their preparation activities. Thinking about future risks without making concrete plans was associated with the lowest levels of psychological wellbeing. Results indicate thinkers or nonplanners should be the main target of intervention to promote preparations for future care needs.