Abstract:

The service needs & utilization patterns of US black elders are examined, using interview data (N = 855) from the Supplement on Aging to the 1984 National Health Interview Survey. It was found that older blacks report higher rates of chronic problems, eg, arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, & strokes, than do older whites, but are less likely to report cancer. Older blacks are more likely than older whites to experience 3+ limitations in their daily living activities (eg, bathing, eating), & almost 14% had 3+ limitations in instrumental activities of daily living (eg, cooking, shopping). These findings are important in view of the trend toward determining multiple limitations to determine eligibility for various inhome services. Since many of the problems experienced by black elders may be lifestyle related, an opportunity may exist for effective intervention with health promotion strategies.