Network type, transition patterns and well-being among older Europeans
Howard Litwin1, Michal Levinsky1, Ella Schwartz1
1Israel Gerontological Data Center, Paul Baerwald School of Social Work, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Mount Scopus, 91905 Jerusalem, Israel.
European Journal of Ageing
|June 19, 2020
Summary
Older adults
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Sociology
- Psychology
Background:
- Previous research identified distinct social network types among older Europeans.
- Social network structures are crucial for well-being in later life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate social network transitions in adults aged 65+ over a 4-year period.
- To examine the association between social network changes and emotional well-being (depression, life satisfaction).
Main Methods:
- Utilized longitudinal data from 13,767 older Europeans (SHARE data).
- Identified four network transition patterns (close-family vs. other networks).
- Employed regression analyses to assess well-being outcomes, controlling for covariates.
Main Results:
- A majority of older adults experienced social network transitions.
- Close-family networks were prevalent and tended to persist or emerge.
- Remaining in or transitioning to close-family networks correlated with lower depression and higher life satisfaction.
Conclusions:
- Social network type and transitions significantly impact emotional well-being in older age.
- Maintaining or developing close-family ties is associated with better mental health outcomes.
- Interventions promoting family closeness may enhance well-being in later life.
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