Prevalence and Predictors of Home Health Care Workers’ General, Physical, and Mental Health: Findings From the 2014‒2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System

Abstract

<b>Objectives.</b> To determine the prevalence and predictors of US home health care workers' (HHWs') self-reported general, physical, and mental health. <b>Methods.</b> Using the 2014-2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System, we analyzed the characteristics and health of 2987 HHWs (weighted n = 659 000) compared with 2 similar low-wage worker groups (health care aides and health care support workers, not working in the home). We conducted multivariable logistic regression to determine which characteristics predicted HHWs' health. <b>Results.</b> Overall, 26.6% of HHWs had fair or poor general health, 14.1% had poor physical health, and 20.9% had poor mental health; the prevalence of each outcome was significantly higher than that of the comparison groups. Among HHWs, certain factors, such as low household income, an inability to see a doctor because of cost, and a history of depression, were associated with all 3 aspects of suboptimal health. <b>Conclusions.</b> HHWs had worse general, physical, and mental health compared with low-wage workers not in home health. <b>Public Health Implications.</b> Increased attention to the health of HHWs by public health experts and policymakers is warranted. In addition, targeted interventions appropriate to their specific health needs may be required. (<i>Am J Public Health</i>. 2021;111(12):2239-2250. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2021.306512).