Family structure and support among older adults
Date
1998
Authors
Anderson, Catherine
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Abstract
As demographic influences, experiences and attitudes change regarding marriage, divorce, single parenthood and female employment, greater diversity in family forms is becoming increasingly prevalent. With increases in the number of childless couples and in the number of divorces and remarriages, relationships and support systems within the family are also changing. Using data drawn from the 5th cycle of the 1990 Canadian General Social Survey - Family and Friends. this study examined the relationship between family structure and the provision of support for elderly individuals. Bivariate and multivariate statistical analyses were used to examine whether there were differences in types, levels and sources of support for individuals aged 60 years and over embedded within three different types of family structure - first-time married couples with children, remarried couples with children, and first-time married couples without children. The findings revealed few significant differences in patterns of support. However, further research examining support within a broader range of family forms is required before definitive conclusions can be drawn.