Family caregiver facilitating access to healthcare and providing daily support for older patients: A descriptive study.

Background: As older adults lose physical function with age, family members often become primary, unpaid caregivers. In Japan, despite having a universal long-term care (LTC) system, families often still bear the caregiving burden. Limited research exists on who supports older outpatients with daily tasks and healthcare access. This study aimed to identify caregivers' involvement in healthcare access and assistance with household tasks for patients aged 80 years or older. Methods: A descriptive study at a suburban hospital in Japan from April 2023 to March 2024. We developed a self-administered questionnaire about LTC certification, transportation to the hospital, and daily activities, and distributed it to all outpatients aged 80 and over. Caregivers or staff assisted patients unable to complete it themselves. Results: Among 371 older patients approached, 359 participated (median age 84; 61.8% female). Among 334 respondents, 32.4% relied on family for visiting the hospital, while 29.3% drove themselves. Fewer used LTC (6.4%) or public transport (7.0%). Reliance on family increased with higher care need levels. Among 358 respondents, 53.4% relied on families for shopping and 48.3% for laundry. Approximately one-third handled these tasks themselves. Use of LTC services was limited (11.7% for shopping, 8.7% for laundry), and reliance on family increased with care needs. Conclusions: In primary care settings, older adults frequently depend on family caregivers for both access to healthcare and the management of daily household tasks. Primary care professionals are well-positioned to recognize and address these prevalent challenges.