Kinlessness, Loneliness, and End of Life: A Cross-National Comparison of 20 Countries. (16th December 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Calvo, Esteban; Mair, Christine; Ornstein, Katherine; Donoso, Rosario; Medina, José
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 4(2020)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 604
• Page End: 604
• Publication Date: 2020-12-16
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igaa057.2039
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: Countries across the globe are experiencing declining rates of fertility and marriage, which present a distinct challenge for older adults' social integration, well-being, and end-of-life care. However, older adults who are "alone" (e.g., no partner, no child) may not be lonely, and end-of-life risks faced by "kinless" older adults likely vary significantly by country context. Using harmonized, cross-national data from 20 countries (United States (HRS), England (ELSA), and European Union (SHARE)), we examine associations between family structure, loneliness, and end-of-life outcomes. Although "kinless" family structures are associated with greater loneliness in the pooled sample, the percent of "kinless" who report no signs of loneliness ranges from 7% (Greece) to 56% (Denmark). Family structure is associated with various end-of-life outcomes, and these associations vary by country—likely reflecting differences in healthcare structure. We discuss distinctions between "being alone, " "being lonely, " and "being without care" in light of cross-national variation.