Usage of Community Services and Domestic Helpers Predicted Institutionalization of Elders Having Functional or Cognitive Impairments: A 12-Month Longitudinal Study in Hong Kong

Among the functionally impaired elders, more usage of community services predicted increased institutionalization, whereas among the functionally and cognitively impaired elders, employment of a domestic helper predicted reduced institutionalization. Innovative services and care models are needed to prevent unnecessary institutionalization and to postpone premature institutionalization. Further research needs to be conducted to investigate the long term care needs of the elders from the perspective of both the elders and their caregivers.