Current Status and Influencing Factors of Long-term Care Needs Among Older People  with Dementia

Background: This study aims to explore the long-term care needs of older individuals with dementia, examining how personal characteristics and the degree of dysfunction shape these requirements. Methods: A questionnaire survey was administered to 1500 older people with dementia across five cities in China from January to June 2023. Three questionnaires were used in this study to gather data. Results: The participants’ long-term care needs correlate significantly with several factors: degree of dysfunction, age, monthly income, and living conditions (all p < 0.05). The findings indicate that rest, supporting environment, and indoor activity space constitute the primary needs of the participants. Conclusions: The long-term care needs of older individuals with dementia vary according to their degree of dysfunction and depend on multiple community-specific factors. These findings provide a scientific basis for tailoring aging reforms to community contexts.