Presentation

Session: Posters
Room: TBA
Time: Fri 13:00-14:30

Presenter: Mine Hancioglu (Ruhr-University of Bochum. Social Policy and Social Economics)

Abstract: The increasing share of older people and the related high prevalence of chronic diseases as well as a frequent incidence of multi-morbidity make health status among the elderly a major social and economic issue. Among other things the effectiveness of medical care is closely linked to individual behaviour of the patient which, in turn, is strongly influenced by his or her social environment. Social support is considered a particularly important determinant of health outcomes. The purpose of this study is to investigate effects of social support on the health of elderly people. Data are taken from the German Epidemiological Trial on Ankle Brachial Index for Elderly Patients in Family Practice (getABI), a unique longitudinal dataset providing valid health variables based on self-assessed health status and the Geriatric Depression Scale. The paper shows that social network characteristics and perceived social support are important determinants of health of older individuals. We distinguish between subtypes of social support and explore the differing roles of those who provide it. Our results indicate that the family is the most important source of social support. Effects are particularly significant if emotional support is performed by confidants.
Key Terms: health, old age, social network, confidant, family members
Authors:: Mine Hancioglu (Ruhr-University of Bochum. Social Policy and Social Economics)

Presentation: Social Support and Health Among the Elderly: Findings From the getABI 5-year Follow–up Survey