Cohort Differences in Social Relations among the Elderly

Social relations have consistently been identified as a critical component of the aging experience. The structure of social networks, the type of support available, and the quality of relationships with significant others have each received a great deal of attention as researchers and policy makers struggle to guarantee the quality of life of older people. Examining the nature of social relations takes on a new sense of urgency as the population of older people grows dramatically worldwide (U.S. Bureau of the Census, 1996). Social relations may be thought of as a form of social capital for elders, a key resource over the life course that provides help in times of trouble, comfort in times of pain, and information in times of need (Ajrouch, Antonucci, J Rook 1994; Thoits, 1995). The range of social relations in which elders may participate include formal (ties to government, healthcare providers, and/or other organizations) and informal (family, friends, neighbors) support. This chapter examines the role of changing demographics, economic trends, and family transformations in shaping social relations of older adults since the second half of the twentieth century. We specifically explore the degree to which things have changed and things have remained the same.