Boundaries, Structure, and Turnover: A Comparative Analysis of Older Adults’ Core Discussion Networks
2024
Understanding Older Adults' Social Networks
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Compernolle Nell, Goldman Alyssa
Primary Institution: NORC at the University of Chicago
Hypothesis
Do commonly used methods accurately capture the social ties older adults rely on in times of need?
Conclusion
The study finds that concerns about the accuracy of measuring older adults' social networks may be overstated.
Supporting Evidence
- Older adults report an average of 3-4 close confidants.
- More than half of older adults report having more than five close confidants.
- About 70% of core confidants are kin.
- Approximately 20% of core confidants co-reside with the individual.
- Average frequency of interaction is a few times a week.
- Average closeness to confidants is described as very close.
- Network turnover is relatively low in both studies.
Takeaway
This study looks at how older people talk about their friends and family. It shows that the way we ask about these relationships is probably pretty good.
Methodology
The study compares findings from two longitudinal studies of older adults' personal networks.
Participant Demographics
Older adults from two longitudinal studies.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website