Abstract:

Secondary analysis of data from a 1988 national survey are drawn on to examine patterns & predictors of formal service use by 483 elderly Mexican American women. Results indicate two patterns of service use - in the home & at senior centers. Regression analysis demonstrates that formal in-home services are used most by those with functional impairment in instrumental activities of daily living & those with the least amount of assistance with such activities provided by family members. Living alone & attending group social events are the best predictors of the use of senior center services. Anticipated changes in the Mexican American population portend a growing need for both types of services, & these findings can be used to establish policy & programming priorities.