Risk factors for nursing home placement in older adults with and without dementia

Objective: The authors explored the effect of predisposing, enabling, and need characteristics on risk of nursing home placement (NHP) in participants with and without dementia. Method: Participants were 1,943 newly enrolled Medicare/Medicaid beneficiaries in Florida who were evaluated for health services by the Department of Elder Affairs. They were at least 65 years of age during fiscal year 1998-1999 and were followed for up to 4 years. Results: Cox proportional hazard regressions indicated that baseline characteristics including older age, White race, diabetes, incontinence, stroke, and difficulties with instrumental activities increased risk of NHP in those without dementia. Caregiver, widowed status, arthritis, and heart disease reduced the risk. Only age, race, and marital status were predictive among participants with dementia. Discussion: Dementia plays a central role in risk of NHP. Understanding risk factors for NHP in this relatively vulnerable population has important policy implications.