Continuing care in British Columbia : public policy and need
Date
2003
Authors
Kusch, Karen Elizabeth
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Abstract
In recent years concerns over the sustainability of the current health care system has lead to a growing interest in home care services as a cheaper alternative to long-term institutional care. Despite the focus on in-home care as a cost-effective and preferable care arrangement, there has been comparatively little research conducted on how in-home care policies may impact upon older adults ' access to needed care services. This study is guided by a political economy approach to aging. It examines how eligibility criteria may impact on the ability of older adults experiencing health-related care needs to access in-home care service. Particular attention is given to class and gender. Findings indicate that although class status does not appear to be a significant predictor of the receipt of in-home care services, there is evidence that older women are less likely to receive in-home care services than are older men. The implications of these findings are discussed and directions for future research proposed.