Child–Parent Relationships and Older Adults’ Health: A Cross-Cultural Comparison Between China and the United States

Abstract

This study compared the associations of child–parent relationships with older adults’ multidimensional health in the United States and China. Two waves of data from the US Health and Retirement Study and its sister study in China (2012–2015) were used (2174 non-Hispanic [NH] White Americans and 4467 Chinese). Linear regression models were conducted for cross-sectional and longitudinal comparisons. Results showed most child–parent relationships had nonsignificant associations with NH White Americans’ health. In contrast, closer child–parent relationships were linked to fewer depressive symptoms and better cognitive function among Chinese. Co-residence was associated with poorer health among older Chinese. Over a 2-year period, living nearby was linked to poorer cognitive function among NH White Americans and fewer depressive symptoms among Chinese. Having weekly contact was predictive of better cognition among Chinese. This study revealed cross-cultural differences in the associations between child–parent relationships and older adults’ health. Family relationships in accordance with Chinese culture could improve health.