Co-residence with married children among older adults in Lebanon: a gain or a drain?

Olla Shideed, American University of Beirut
Abla Sibai, American University of Beirut

Traditionally, older adults are considered a wealth to the family and thus are cared for by family members. However, a number of changes including the society and its ties; industrialization, increased female labor participation, and migration are jeopardizing intergenerational support for older adults. Literature has underscored that living with children is beneficial for both the older adult and co-residing child and hence, the study of older adults and their various living arrangements are essential for the well-fare of the elderly. This study utilizes data from the “Household Health Survey”, in an attempt to assess the correlates of living with married children among older adults (65 years and over) in Lebanon. Results showed that 17.1% of older adults were co-residing with a married child, being more frequent among females (20.9). Co-residence was positively associated with increasing age, being currently unmarried, and presence of health-conditions; and negatively associated with increased socio-economic status.