Factors related to the institutionalization of older aged individuals using home and community based services: Data from the South Korea Long Term Care Insurance, 2008-2013

Abstract

SouthKoreaintroduced a publiclong-termcareinsurance(LTCI) program in response to its rapidly aging population. This study analyzed the association between living arrangement and caregiver type withinstitutionalizationin LTCI grade 1 (very severe limitations), 2 (severe limitations), and 3 (moderate limitations) beneficiaries usingdatafrom the LTCI cohort, 2008 to 2013. The dependent variable was alteration status fromhometo institutionalcarewithin 1 year of receivinghomeservice. Independent variables were living arrangement and primary caregiver type. The analysis was conducted using the generalized estimating equation model. Higher likelihoods ofinstitutionalizationwere found inindividualsliving with a non-family member compared toindividualsliving with their spouses.Individualswithout a caregiver or with a paid caregiver were also more likely to experienceinstitutionalizationthanindividualswith a spouse primary caregiver. Our findings underscore the importance of monitoring identified vulnerable groups ofindividualsto attain LTCI sustainability and enhance elderly quality of life.