Factors associated with willingness to enter care homes for the elderly and pre-elderly in west of China

Abstract

The research describes willingness of urban and rural residents over age 40 to enter care homes and examines personal factors which impact their willingness. Trained investigators gathered survey responses on sociodemographic information, physical health status, lifestyle behaviors, willingness to enter care homes, and specific service needs. 34.8% of the 1186 survey participants expressed willingness to enter care homes, with lower percentage of rural residents (25.8%) expressing willingness compared to urban residents (41.6%). The decision to enter care homes is impacted by occupation for urban residents and education status for rural residents. Healthcare remains the top consideration when considering care homes.