Support service use by persons with AIDS and their caregivers

The purpose of this study was to identify factors related to the use and non-use of emotional and practical support services by persons with AIDS (PWAs) and their informal caregivers. Unmet need for PWA support services and perceived barriers to the use of these types of services were also identified. Structured interviews were conducted with 472 self-selected informal AIDS caregivers in greater Los Angeles and the San Francisco Bay area. Data from a cross-sectional survey interview were analysed using logistic regression models fit for three categories of service use. Use of support services was substantial in this sample. Case management, caregiver HIV status, education, co-residence, and type of interpersonal relationship were important predictors of service use. Unmet need for PWA services was also substantial. The PWA's unwillingness to use services and lack of access were identified as key barriers to service use. Even in the presence of an informal caregiver, PWAs require considerable supplemental assistance from institutional sources. The presence of informal assistance to PWAs does not eliminate the need for institutional support. Moreover, caregivers themselves demonstrate considerable need for support.