Utilization of Respite Services: A Comparison of Users, Seekers, and Nonseekers

Abstract

Four hundred fifty-eight family caregivers of Alzheimer's patients in Michigan were interviewed to identify factors associated with respite use. Of these caregivers, 176 were using respite (users), 128 had inquired about the service but had not yet used it (seekers), and 154 had neither used nor inquired about respite services (nonseekers). Separate logistic regression models were evaluated to identify users versus nonusers ( n = 458) and seekers versus nonseekers ( n = 282). Need for assistance with activities of daily living, availability of other caregivers, concern with cost, and adherence by the respite programto an established service schedule contributed significantly to the model distinguishing service users from nonusers. Caregiver burden, the presence of other caregivers, and the availability of transportation services made significant, unique contributions to the model distinguishing seekers from nonseekers.