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Is respite care available for chronically ill seniors?
J B Brown1, C McWilliam, S Wetmore
1Thames Valley Family Practice Research Unit, Department of Family Medicine's Centre for Studies in Family Medicine, University of Western Ontario (UWO), London. jbbrown@julian.uwo.ca
Canadian Family Physician Medecin De Famille Canadien
|October 3, 2000
Summary
Family physicians perceive respite care as valuable but often difficult to access for chronically ill older adults. Education and better information on available services are needed, especially addressing regional disparities.
Area of Science:
- Geriatrics
- Family Medicine
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Respite care is crucial for supporting chronically ill older adults and their caregivers.
- Understanding family physicians' perspectives on respite care accessibility and effectiveness is vital for improving elder care services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess family physicians' views on the availability and referral ease of respite care for chronically ill older patients.
- To examine physicians' opinions regarding the effectiveness and role of respite care.
Main Methods:
- A mailed survey was distributed to family physicians within the Thames Valley Family Practice Research Unit network.
- Data were collected from 288 physicians, yielding a 64.3% response rate.
Main Results:
- Over half of physicians found outpatient respite care available, though inpatient care was less accessible.
- More than half reported difficulties in referring patients to respite care.
- Physicians held positive views on respite care's role in reducing caregiver stress and supporting long-term care, with perceptions influenced by perceived availability and medical school background.
Conclusions:
- Family physicians require enhanced education regarding the benefits of respite services for older patients and their families.
- Improved information on service availability and access strategies is necessary for physicians.
- Addressing regional disparities in respite care provision is essential to ensure equitable access.