Analysis of Factors Associated with Changes in Dependency Level among the Slightly Frail Elderly Using the LTCI Services in Japan

Abstract

In order to clarify the factors associated with changes in dependency level of frail elderly who use the Japanese Long Term Care Insurance services, the authors have investigated the 1,736 care plans that were randomly sampled from the 2002 and 2003 LTCI data base of Fukuoka prefecture. According to the results of multiple regression analysis, the prevalence of dementia was associated with decline of dependency level (p<0.001). The care plan that well reflected client’s expectation showed a preventive effect of dependency decline with a statistical significance (p<0.001). Although there were not statistical significances, an appropriate long term goal setting and facilitation of client’s self independency also showed preventive effects (p=0.060 and 0.108, respectively). The results of current study indicated that quality of care management is important to prevent the decline of independency level among the frail elderly.