Visualizing Veterans’ Care at Home: Understanding the Structure,Function,and Adequacy of Caregiving Networks

Abstract

Many older adults rely on a complex network of paid and unpaid care partners. Gaps in these networks can lead to unmet functional, medical, and socioemotional needs and poor health outcomes. We explored the structure, function and adequacy of older veterans’ care networks using care mapping, a collaborative visual tool. We conducted care mapping sessions with 10 Veteran and caregiver dyads/triads. Veterans had an average of 3 “close” care partners. Maps identified informal supports (e.g., neighbors, online groups, local businesses) and unmet needs, including home health aide support. Participants generally found their networks adequate regardless of structure, suggesting that there is no “one size fits all.” However, veterans rarely had a “Plan B” if their primary care partners were unavailable. Understanding the scope and functioning of care networks can help health care teams more effectively target home-based and community supports where they are most needed.