Relationships in late adulthood

During late adulthood, many people find that their relationships with their adult children, siblings, spouses, or life partners change. Roles may also change, as many are grandparents or great-grandparents, caregivers to even older parents or spouses, or receivers of care in a nursing home or other care facility.

Why are relationships important in late adulthood?

Emotionally gratifying relationships and the social and emotional support they provide buffer older adults against the challenges inherent in the aging process, such as negative health changes, changes in cognitive functioning, or possible social losses.

What characterizes friendship in late adulthood?

The characteristics of friendships in late adulthood include the fact that friends are often chosen based on shared values, there are fewer opposite-sex friendships, and the social circle narrows in late adulthood.

Who is most likely to marry in late adulthood?

At every age, the report shows, older men are far more likely to be married than older women. About three-quarters of men ages 65 to 74 are married, compared with 58 percent of women in that age group.