Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026

Measuring Biophysical and Psychological Stress Levels Following Visitation to Three Locations with Differing Levels of Nature
Published on: June 19, 2019
Family ties, physical health, and psychological well-being
Andrea Kay Ryan1, Fern K Willits
1Pennsylvania State University, University Park, USA.
Objective:
This study assesses the impact of number and quality of family ties on the health and well-being of elderly people.
Method:
Measures of the quantity and quality of family ties, adjusting for gender, education, and income, were correlated with the self-rating of health and well-being of a sample of 534 married parents between 68 and 73 years of age.
Results:
The quality of an individual's relationships with spouse, children, and other family members was associated with personal feelings of well-being, but the quantity of such associations had little impact on either physical or psychological health.
Discussion:
Researchers and those working with elderly people should not assume that the presence of family members necessarily implies that social support affecting physical health and well-being will be forthcoming.
Related Concept Videos
Social Relationships and Well-Being
Family Therapy
Strategic Family Therapy
Strategic family therapy emphasizes resolving communication barriers and improving problem-solving abilities...
Dimensions of Health and Illness
Relationship with Other Adult Family Members and Siblings
Relationship Growth
Importance of Need for Affiliation
