Ageing and Society, vol.24, 2004, p.921-939
Article examines relationships between support networks and the use of formal homecare in Israel. Data were drawn from a 1997 national survey of people aged 60 or more. No association was found between homecare utilisation and the respondent's ethnicity (Arab, Jew or new Russian immigrant). Results show that formal care services were used more frequently by very old people, women, functionally impaired individuals and people embedded in neighbour-focused and restricted social networks. Basically, people sought formal support when they had limited access to informal support and care.