Help-Seeking Behaviors Among Older Adults: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Health Services Research
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Older adults frequently encounter health challenges necessitating greater care.
• Despite these needs, older adults often exhibit reluctance in seeking assistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore factors influencing the help-seeking behaviors of older adults.
• To examine additional challenges faced by minority ethnic older adults in seeking help.
• To identify strategies for enhancing help-seeking behaviors in this demographic.

Main Methods:

• A systematic scoping review was conducted following Arksey and O'Malley's framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• A qualitative meta-synthesis approach was employed to identify emergent themes.
• Data from 52 studies were analyzed and organized into five key themes.

Main Results:

• Key themes identified include formal/informal supports, independence, symptom appraisal, accessibility/awareness, and cultural factors (language, alternative medicine, residency).
• Independence and symptom appraisal emerged as significant factors influencing help-seeking.
• Minority ethnic populations face distinct barriers, including language and differing health beliefs.

Conclusions:

• Understanding the interplay between independence, symptom appraisal, and support systems is crucial for older adults' help-seeking.
• Addressing cultural and accessibility barriers is vital for improving healthcare access for minority ethnic older adults.
• These findings offer insights for developing targeted interventions to support older adults in seeking necessary care.