Family structure and support for the oldest old: A cross-sectional study in Dujiangyan, China. Issue 4 (1st December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Ren, Xiaohui; Meng, Hongdao; Liu, Chaojie; Wu, Jinhui; Dong, Birong; Li, Ningxiu
• Is Part Of: Family medicine and community health. Volume 3:Issue 4(2015)
• Page Start: 5
• Page End: 14
• Publication Date: 2015-12-01
• Subjects: Oldest old -- family support -- family structure -- China; Family medicine -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; Family medicine; Public health; Family Practice; Community Health Services; General Practice; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Periodical; 610.5
• DOI: 10.15212/FMCH.2015.0132
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2305-6983

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: In China, adult children have traditionally provided support for their aged parents. This model of care is increasingly challenged by the decline of the extended family. Recently, China's decades-long one-child policy has eased. We examine the association of family size and composition with family support for nonagenarians and centenarians. Methods: Data were obtained through a questionnaire survey of 619 nonagenarians and centenarians in Dujiangyan and were analyzed by chi-square tests, Student t tests, and multivariate logistic regression models. Results: This study revealed that an increased number of offspring might provide financial support for older people, but this does not necessarily translate into physical and emotional care. Conclusion: It is clear that although alternative sources of support for older people are increasingly needed, in China the family will continue to play an important role in supporting older people.