Role of Family in Provision and Perception of Social Support for Older People: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Tehran-Iran

Introduction: The process of demographic transition, coupled with modernization, has had considerable consequences for the structure and function of families as main source of support for the elderly. The main aim of this study was to provide a benchmark by examining associations between family factors and the elderly’s social support.Material and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of a random sample of ۶۴۴ people aged ۶۰+ years resident in Tehran stratified by the area’s socioeconomic status. Multilevel mixed-effects models were used to examine the hypotheses.Results: The analyses showed that family size, living arrangements, and contact with family members were associated with the elderly’s receipt of instrumental social support. Living arrangements and quality of relationships with family members were associated with the elderly’s perceptions of social support.Conclusion: Implications of these findings are considered and may provide important insights into the implications of demographic and associated family changes for the elderly in the future."

Keywords:

Family , Social Support , Iran.