Concepts of Long-Term Care (LTC) Financing Among the Older Adults in Ghana Based on Andersen Behavioral Model

Abstract Introduction In Ghana, ongoing social transformations are gradually eroding the traditional dependence on family members for the care of older adults. Although a formal long-term care (LTC) system has yet to be fully established, older adults are increasingly faced with a range of LTC financing options. This study seeks to explore the financial dimensions of care for older adults and identify the factors that influence the adoption of various LTC funding models. Methods The study utilized data from Wave 3 of the Ghana Socio-Economic Panel Survey (GSPS). Multiple and binary logistic regression models were employed to analyze the data, guided by the Andersen Behavioral Model of Health Services Use. This framework categorizes influencing factors into predisposing, enabling, and need-related domains. Results Compared to individuals without care financing, the odds of combined care financing were higher among adults aged 80+, females, contributors to farm or non-farm businesses, wealthy individuals, household heads and those with disabilities in two Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Frequent alcohol consumers were more likely to use informal care financing but less likely to use formal care. The availability of health facilities increased the odds of formal care use, while individuals holding traditional office positions were less likely to use formal care. Gender-stratified models showed that female participants involved in non-farm and farm businesses, and those who frequently consumed alcohol, were more likely to use informal care financing. Female Christians were more likely to rely on formal care financing. Conclusion These findings offer insights for designing targeted LTC financing options to meet the diverse needs of older adults in Ghana.