The findings of the 4 preceding country studies are examined here from a comparative perspective identifying some of the similarities and differences that underlie living arrangements of the elderly. More specifically, we compare the normative basis underlying living arrangements, mechanisms that help perpetuate co-residence, strains inherent to co-residence, preferences for co-residents, alternative forms of living arrangements, and views of social changes in relation to living arrangements. Overall, the focus group data on which the studies are based highlight the importance of culture in influencing the living arrangements of elderly people in Asia. The results suggest that at least for the next generation, co-residential living by elderly with children will continue to be a viable option, although the extent to which it persists is likely to vary among the 4 countries studied.

It is projected that, in the 21st century, the majority of the world's older people will be living in Asia. After Japan, Singapore is the most rapidly aging country in Asia. With an increasing life expectancy, many older persons will require health and instrumental care during later life stages. In Singapore, close to 95% of older people co-reside with family members, highlighting the importance of community support for family caregivers. Using a study of 61 principal family caregivers in Singapore, this article highlights the nature of and relationship between caregivers' stress and gender, patients' activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental ADL dependency, and caregivers' attitudes. Findings from the study suggest that female caregivers tended to be more stressed than male caregivers. Results also showed a significant inverse relationship between the level of stress experienced by caregivers and the ADL and instrumental ADL dependency of patients. Caregivers looking after patients suffering from dementia, Parkinson's disease, and hypertension were more likely to be stressed than those caring for persons with stroke, depression, and other illnesses. This article concludes by describing some implications of this research for social worker practice and for informal as well as formal support programs for family caregivers.

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