Gender differences in social network size and satisfaction in adults in their 70s.
Strong social support is associated with lower mortality and morbidity and better self-rated health in later life. The aim of this study was to compare social network size and satisfaction in men (N = 2589) and women (n = 3152), aged 72-78 years. Women reported significantly larger networks (Difference 1.36, 95% CI 0.89, 1.83) than men. However, being separated, divorced or single had a significantly greater impact on men's social networks (Difference 0.92, 95% CI 0.17, 1.68). Poor mental health and sensory impairments were associated with smaller networks and lower satisfaction with support for both men and women.
McLaughlin
Deirdre
D
University of Queensland, Herston, Brisbane, Australia. deirdre.mclaughlin@uq.edu.au
Vagenas
Dimitrios
D
Pachana
Nancy A
NA
Begum
Nelufa
N
Dobson
Annette
A
D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000523:psychology*; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000523:psychology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008136:Longevity; D008297:Male; D017533:Marital Status; D010549:Personal Satisfaction; D011788:Quality of Life / Q000523:psychology; D011793:Queensland; D012678:Sensation Disorders / Q000523:psychology; D012737:Sex Factors; D012944:Social Support