Implications of relationships with family, friends, and neighbors for changes in women's well-being in late life

J Women Aging. 2021 Jul-Aug;33(4):362-377. doi: 10.1080/08952841.2020.1847712. Epub 2020 Nov 27.

Abstract

This study examined whether relationships with family, friends, and neighbors (both satisfaction and number in the social network) were associated with older women's well-being concurrently and over two years. Additionally, age differences among older women were explored. Women aged 60+ (N = 224, Mage = 80) were sampled from the Social Integration and Aging Study. Greater family and friend satisfaction were positively associated with well-being; number in network was not. Age-related effects for family and friend relationships suggested potential protective effects for the oldest women. Findings highlight unique facets of older women's relationships, suggesting future directions addressing age and support source.

Keywords: Family relationships; friendship; neighbors.

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aging / psychology*
  • Family Relations*
  • Female
  • Friends*
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Personal Satisfaction
  • Social Integration
  • Social Support*