Social support and psychological well-being of older adults in eastern Asia: a review and reflection

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to review and reflect themes in regard to intergenerational support and psychological well-being of older adults in five Eastern Asian countries/communities: The People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea. METHOD: 46 empirical studies were identified by searching six electronic databases on empirical studies published in English between January 2000 and August 2012 with a minimum sample size of 400. Findings: Among the 46 studies reviewed, only around one-fourth provided theoretical definitions of intergenerational support and eight studies included structural, functional, and appraisal dimensions of support. Only six studies included indigenous concepts and measures such as filial piety and adherence to traditional norms. The role of social support on psychological well-being was inconclusive. CONCLUSION: Studies on social support and psychological well-being among older adults in the Eastern Asian context should focus on both cultural-free and cultural-specific measures.