Intergenerational Support and Subjective Well-Being of Older Adults in China

Abstract

This study examines intergenerational support (IGS) and its impact on the subjective well-being of older adults in Chinese families, focusing on both upward and downward support. Data from the 2018 China Family Panel Studies show considerable mutual support between parents and children. Support from children to parents significantly improves the well-being of older adults, while support from parents to children has less impact. Contrary to expectations, the interaction between upward and downward support does not significantly affect the well-being of older adults. We categorized IGS into four family types and found that families with upward-IGS reported higher well-being than those with no IGS. Our findings underscore the central role of financial support and caregiving activities in enhancing the subjective well-being of older adults. These findings also suggest a policy recommendation for refining social eldercare systems in China to alleviate family pressures associated with eldercare responsibilities.