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Living alone: elderly Chinese Singaporeans
Yang-Sheng Wong1, Lois M Verbrugge
1University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA. wongys@umich.edu
Journal of Cross-Cultural Gerontology
|October 1, 2008
Summary
Many older Chinese Singaporeans live alone, developing strategies to combat social isolation. Despite challenges, they often prefer solo living for comfort and familiarity, maintaining connections through social services.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Public Health
Background:
- Traditional Asian norms favor co-residence of older adults with children.
- A growing number of older adults are living alone, presenting unique challenges.
- This study addresses a gap in understanding solo-living older adults in Asian societies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore social isolation, coping strategies, and living arrangement preferences.
- To investigate the experiences of Chinese Singaporeans aged 65+ living alone.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study utilizing 19 semi-structured interviews.
- Analysis of lived experiences and perspectives of older adults living alone.
Main Results:
- Participants live alone by necessity or choice, adapting with behavioral and psychological strategies.
- Social and medical services are crucial links to the external world.
- Many solo-dwellers find comfort and familiarity in living alone, despite some hardships.
Conclusions:
- Older adults living alone in Singapore develop effective coping mechanisms for social isolation.
- Living alone can be a preferred arrangement for some older adults, offering personal comfort.
- Access to services is vital for the well-being of older adults living independently.
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