No Longer Independent

Data from the Parent Health Supplement of the 1991 interview wave of the Panel Studies of Income Dynamics were used to examine the changes in care arrangements for elderly parents (N = 1,028). Following the onset of their dependency, more than 60% of elderly parents experienced at least one form of institutionalization (hospital or nursing home). A majority of those who remained in the community also experienced changes in living/care arrangements, often moving in with someone or having someone move in with them. The findings confirm those of previous studies that health-related need factors and race are significant determinants of institutionalization immediately following the onset of dependency. But availability of caregivers and other enabling factors are also significant determinants of care settings used following hospitalization.