Satisfaction Ratings and Problems Experienced with Paid Personal Attendant Care: Ethnic Comparisons

Use of paid personal attendants (PAs) may help older adults with disabilities remain in the community. This study examined seniors' choice of PAs, self-reported satisfaction ratings and problems experienced with PAs, and ethnic differences. The sample included 118 older adults consisting of 65 non-Hispanic white (white) and 53 Mexican-American (MA) seniors. Ethnic differences existed in PA arrangements, with white seniors more likely to use unknown PAs interviewed prior to hire, and MA seniors more likely to use family, friends, or neighbors ("known PAs"). Satisfaction ratings were high for both ethnic groups and did not differ by PA arrangement. However, problems with PAs were reported by 41% of the sample and differed by PA arrangement and ethnicity. MA seniors reported the most problems with PAs unknown to them prior to being hired. White seniors had problems with PAs regardless of arrangement, suggesting difficulty in identifying and hiring competent PAs. A gender difference was also found, with women reporting more PA problems than did men. Some identified problems were serious enough to suggest a need for oversight. Functional impairment level was not related to PA arrangement, satisfaction, or problems experienced.