THE RELATIONSHIP OF FAMILY SUPPORT TO ELDER WELL-BEING

Abstract

A descriptive study was conducted to examine the relationship between family support and elder well-being of a group of ambulatory elders living in the community. Information regarding the elder parent's reporting of the overall support received by adult children and its affect on well-being was sought. Forty five female subjects, aged 65 to 91 years, participated in this study. The subjects completed a questionnaire which included the Demographic Questionnaire, Family Support Exchange Questionnaire, Family APGAR, and Philadelphia Geriatric Center Morale Scale. The sample population was homogeneous and no significant correlations were demonstrated between quantity or quality measures of family support and elder well-being. The study findings were consistent with previous studies in that elder parents generally live in close proximity to at least one adult child and have frequent contact with them. Elderly parents were satisfied with the support they received from children and would confide in their children.