The Responsible Child and Parental Well-Being
What is there in the relationship between elderly parents and their adult children that may enhance parental well-being? Elderly parents 70 years of age and over were interviewed, as well as the children designated as the persons who would be responsible for the parents in the event of a crisis (N = 50 dyads). Both parents' and children's perceptions of the relationship were assessed. Although the amount of association was not impressive, well-being (LSR) was associated with parents' perceptions of the children as aware of their wishes if something serious were to occur and aware that plans were made for the future; and with the children's knowledge of community resources. These findings suggest how security of the elderly can be enhanced through intergenerational relationships.