Changes of Health Status and Institutionalization among Older Adults in China

Objective: To examine rates of institutionalization of Chinese older adults aged 65+ and the impact of changes in health status on the likelihood of institutionalization. Method: Using data from the 2002, 2005, 2008, and 2011 waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS), admission rates for each 3-year interval between waves were calculated. Logistic regression models were used to assess the changes of five health status variables as risk factors. Results: Between the first (2002-2005) and third (2008-2011) intervals, the institutionalization rate increased from 0.5% to 0.8%. Risk of institutionalization increased 70% for respondents with declining ability to perform activities of daily living, 53% for those with declining cognitive function, and 44% for those with increasing number of chronic diseases. Discussion: Development of policies and programs to improve older adults' health status is essential to delay institutionalization. Quality of workforce is also critical in meeting the care needs.