Social networks and use of social supports of minority elders in East Harlem.
Considerable empirical research substantiates the importance of social networks on health and well-being in later life. A study of ethnic minority elders living in two low income public housing buildings in East Harlem was undertaken to gain an understanding of the relationship between their health status and social networks. Findings demonstrate that elders with supportive housing had better psychological outcomes and used significantly more informal supports when in need. However, elders with serious health problems had poorer outcomes regardless of their level of social support. This study highlights the potential of supportive living environments to foster social integration and to optimise formal and informal networks.
Cleak
Helen
H
Department of Social Work and Social Policy, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia 3086. H.Cleak@Latrobe.Edu.Au
Howe
Judith L
JL
D001741:Black or African American / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D006304:Health Status; D006630:Hispanic or Latino / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D016852:Housing for the Elderly; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D009519:New York City; D011203:Poverty; D011638:Public Housing; D012931:Social Environment; D012944:Social Support; D012946:Social Welfare