Does relationship satisfaction and financial aid from offspring influence the quality of life of older parents?: a longitudinal study based on findings from the Korean longitudinal study of aging, 2006–2012

Abstract

BackgroundQuality of life (QoL) in old age is of major importance because the global population is aging rapidly. Offspring support, including financial and emotional support, is important in later life and directly affects the wellbeing of elderly individuals. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between QoL in older parents and offspring support.MethodsWe used baseline data from the 2006–2012 Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging, from 3,274 individuals aged 65 years or older. We measured the individual’s QoL using a visual analog scale and included both relationship satisfaction and regular economic support as variables. A generalized estimating equation (GEE) model was used to perform longitudinal regression analysis on the data.ResultsRegarding the QoL of older parents, those with an unsatisfying relationship with their offspring had a QoL of -21.93 (SE = 0.55; P < 0.0001) compared to those with satisfying offspring relationships. Those receiving no regular financial aid from their offspring had a QoL of -0.92 (SE = 0.38; P = 0.0171) compared to those who received such economic support. Combination effects were observed, with cases living alone – and having poor offspring relationships and no regular financial support from their offspring – showing the most drastic decrease in QoL (-23.46; SE = 1.03; P < 0.0001).ConclusionsOffspring support influences the QoL of elderly individuals, and Korean children appear to play a crucial role in the QoL of their (older) parents. Considering that the role of offspring is rapidly diminishing due to industrialization policies, initiatives are required to revitalize offspring support for elderly parents.

Determinants of Quality of Life among Rural Elderly Population in Khonkean Province of Thailand

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“…Filial responsibility of adult children to their aged parents is considered as one of the fundamental practices of Eastern culture that exerts a strong impact on elderly wellbeing. Findings based on longitudinal studies indicated that filial responsibility characterized by structural and functional support from an adult child was associated with a better quality of life (Ju et al, 2016) and low moral (Takagi & Saito, 2012). In line with this, a cross-sectional study by Yunong (2012) found that filial support was significantly positively linked to subjective wellbeing of Chinese older adults.…”