Factors associated with being an older rather than younger unpaid carer of adults with a chronic health condition: Results from a population-based cross-sectional survey in South Australia

Objective To examine sociodemographic characteristics and caring experiences associated with being an older rather than younger carer of an adult with a chronic health condition. Methods The population-based cross-sectional South Australian Health Omnibus survey was administered in 2016. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify sociodemographic characteristics and caring experiences associated with being an older (>= 65 years) versus younger (<65 years) carer of one or more adult(s) with a chronic health condition. Results Of 988 survey respondents who self-identified as carers, 198(20%) were 65 years or over. Characteristics associated with being an older carer included having a partner, having poor physical health, being born outside Australia, have no formal qualification, living in a household of 1-2 people, have an annual household income <=$60,000, and owning one's home. Carer experiences associated with older carer status included providing >= 40 h of care per week, perceived control over caring, and caring for someone with a neurological condition, whereas caring for someone with a mental illness, reporting poor mental health of their own, and providing personal care were inversely associated. Discussion Interventions directed at older carers should consider the increased likelihood that they may be investing large amounts of time in caring for someone with a neurological condition, and be culturally and linguistically diverse.

Automated summary

This study examined sociodemographic characteristics and caring experiences of older and younger carers of adults with chronic health conditions. The results showed that older carers were more likely to have a partner, poor physical health, be born outside Australia, have no formal qualification, live in a household of 1-2 people, have a lower annual household income, and own their home. Older carers were more likely to provide over 40 hours of care per week, perceive control over caring, and care for someone with a neurological condition, while caring for someone with a mental illness, reporting poor mental health, and providing personal care were less likely.