Population Council Research that makes a difference

Abstract

Health and living arrangement transitions among China's oldest-old (HTML) 
Zimmer,Zachary
Research on Aging 27(5): 526-555
Publication date: 2005

---

This article begins with the notion that the family in Chinaacts altruistically, aiming toward the comfortable survivalof all members. On the basis of this perspective, coresidencewith older adults is more likely to occur when needs are greatest,for instance, when health deteriorates or a spouse dies. Thereis also the possibility of gender variation due to differencesin authority and emotional bonds between older women and menand their families. These notions are tested using longitudinaldata. Cross-sectional and transitional models link health statusmeasures with living arrangement outcomes. Results show changesin living arrangements occur frequently. Functional limitationsare more strongly associated with living arrangements than areother health indicators. Health indicators are more stronglyrelated for those not married. Gender interactions show a healthevent is most likely to trigger a living arrangement responsefor a woman. Implications for a rapidly aging China are discussed.

---