The relationship between formal and informal care among Chinese older adults: based on the 2014 CLHLS dataset

Wenyi Lin

doi:10.1186/s12913-019-4160-8

Abstract

BackgroundThe substitute or complementary effect of formal care on informal care service used by the elderly has been tested in Western countries. However, this effect is excluded from the discussion in the Chinese context. The identification of the relationship between informal care and formal care may imply different directions in policy-making. Thus, this study contributes to understanding the relationship between informal care and formal care among Chinese older adults.MethodsUsing the dataset from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) in 2014, this study uses regression models and instrumental variable (IV) method to examine the impact of formal care on informal care.ResultsThe results primarily show that formal care does not substitute informal care among Chinese older adults. In fact, formal care is a supplement to informal care in China.ConclusionIt is expected that informal care will become less available in the future in China. Thus, policymakers should be concerned about the underdevelopment of formal care for the elderly in China.

Highlights

The substitute or complementary effect of formal care on informal care service used by the elderly has been tested in Western countries
Public spending for older adults is increasing, policymakers are vigilant about the negative impact of formal care services on informal care mainly provided by family members
Findings of this study indicate that factors associated with formal care utilization include the respondent’s age, marital status, income status, activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL), the availability of social services in the community

Summary

Introduction

The substitute or complementary effect of formal care on informal care service used by the elderly has been tested in Western countries. This effect is excluded from the discussion in the Chinese context. This study contributes to understanding the relationship between informal care and formal care among Chinese older adults. Results: The results primarily show that formal care does not substitute informal care among Chinese older adults. Conclusion: It is expected that informal care will become less available in the future in China. Public spending for older adults is increasing, policymakers are vigilant about the negative impact of formal care services on informal care mainly provided by family members.

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Methods

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Discussion

Conclusion