Differences Between Users and Nonusers of Day Care Centers Among Frail Older Persons in Israel

Abstract

Day care centers are one of the core community-based services for frail older persons. The purpose of the study is to examine differences in characteristics of users and nonusers of day care centers among frail older people and factors that explain service utilization. Personal interviews are conducted with 333 respondents, of whom 81 were users. Based on the behavioral model of Andersen, the results show that both groups significantly differed in most predisposing (age, marital status), enabling (having a homecare worker), and need (IADL [instrumental activities of daily living]) factors. The findings lend support to Andersen’s behavioral model and suggest that further research is needed to assess underutilization of day care centers. Implications for research, policy, and practice are discussed.