Racial Differences in Choice and Control Among Older Adults: Results From Connecticut's Money Follows the Person
Chanee D Fabius1,2, Edna Brown2, Julie T Robison3
1Center for Gerontology and Healthcare Research, Brown University School of Public Health,Providence, Rhode Island, USA.
Journal of Aging & Social Policy
|April 3, 2019
Summary
Racial disparities in choice and control exist for participants in the Money Follows the Person (MFP) program. Targeted initiatives are needed to address unique factors affecting choice and control for White and Black individuals transitioning to community living.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Health Disparities
- Community Reintegration
Background:
- The Money Follows the Person (MFP) program aims to facilitate community living for individuals transitioning from institutional settings.
- Understanding racial differences in choice and control is crucial for effective program implementation and participant well-being.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine racial differences in the determinants of choice and control over daily activities and service coordination among White and Black participants in the Connecticut MFP Rebalancing Demonstration.
- To identify within-group factors contributing to choice and control.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of data from White and Black participants in the Connecticut MFP Rebalancing Demonstration.
- Within-group analyses to identify factors associated with choice and control.
Main Results:
- No overall disparities were found in the odds of reporting choice and control between racial groups.
- Specific factors were associated with lower choice and control for each racial group: White participants with mental health challenges, living with family, or with functional impairments; Black participants with engagement transition challenges.
- Determinants of choice in service coordination varied significantly by race.
Conclusions:
- While overall choice and control may not differ by race, specific subgroups face unique barriers.
- Initiatives must be tailored to address race-specific determinants of choice and control to optimize community reintegration outcomes for MFP participants.
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