An exploratory descriptive study of the needs and the informal support networks of a group of elderly persons living in two high-rise apartment buildings

The purposes of this study were to examine the existence of, and to describe the informal networks of a group of elderly in relation to their health and social needs. Four research questions were examined: (1) the existence of informal networks; (2) the health and social needs of the group; (3) the extent to which the informal systems serve as sources of support; and (4) the extent to which the group can rely on informal systems over an extended period of time.

Survey data were examined from 99 elderly respondents in two high-rise complexes in the midtown area of Memphis. They ranged in age from 62-100, had adequate income, had a mean education of 8.0 years, and had a number of potentially limiting physical conditions which require help for them to remain in their own homes.

It was found that informal support networks existed for 49 of the respondents. The most prevalent health problems were arthritis, hypertension, and heart disease. The major area where help was needed was in transportation. The greatest support was provided by family members. Finally, the group felt that they could continue to rely on the informal network for continued support.

The longevity and chronicity of this group of elderly suggest a number of policy considerations regarding long-term care. Consideration should be given to the following:

1. The provision of financial incentives to family and nonfamily who provide care to the elderly in their own homes.

2. The allocation of funds to develop respite care facilities to relieve the elderly's caretakers.

3. The coordination of formal and informal sources of support in order to provide more sensitive and personalized care to the elderly.

4. The dissemination of information regarding normal processes of aging and available resources for the care of the elderly.

Finally, future research should seek to answer: (1) how helping networks are formed; (2) how caregivers feel about providing help to functionally impaired relatives and friends; (3) the strategies to be used to develop support networks where they are needed; and (4) how existing support networks can be sustained.