This research describes the social network and social support characteristics of the oldest old (85 years and older), the fastest growing segment of the United States population. Data were from the Longitudinal Study of Aging (LSOA), which conducted a baseline interview (N=7,257) in 1984 of individuals 70 years and older. Information was collected on demographic characteristics, family structure, social activities, and social relationships. The analytic sample comprised a total of 824 respondents, among whom the majority was female (70%) and white (93%). Family and social contact information included living arrangements, interaction with children, and contact with friends or relatives in the past two weeks. Social activities involved attending religious services in the past two weeks, using a senior center, and total number of community services used. In comparison to men, a larger percentage of women were widowed (81%) and lived alone (81%). In addition, about 74% of women talked with friends on the telephone within the past two weeks compared to 26% of men. Men in comparison to women differed in the amount of contact with their children during the year. About three-quarters of women reported such contact versus only one-quarter of men. Thus, the results suggested that women tended to have more social contacts of all types than did men. This study may lead to better understanding how social networks and social support status impact health among the oldest old population.
Learning Objectives: At the end of the session, the participant should be able to: discuss issues of social networks and social support among the aged; understand differences by gender in social networks and social support; and appreciate implications for health of social networks and social support
Keywords: Aging, Family Involvement
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.