Informal or formal home care and rehabilitation utilization among aging Canadians with musculoskeletal conditions: A population-based study

Project Summary

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSKDs), such as arthritis and back pain, are leading causes of disability and main reasons for requiring rehabilitation services among older adults worldwide. Despite their needs, many older adults with MSKDs face barriers to accessing rehabilitation services and rely on unpaid help from family or friends, which is called informal home care. This caregiving can be stressful and costly for caregivers. With Canada’s aging population, more people will likely need this type of care. However, little is known about who receives informal care or rehabilitation services among older Canadians with MSKDs. Using national data, this study aims to understand how many older adults with MSKDs receive informal or formal home care and their characteristics, and whether they also access rehabilitation services. The findings will help improve care planning and reduce the burden on both older adults and their caregivers.