Important types of social networks for subjective well-being among older Japanese: Gender and age variations

This research examines how the linkages between different types of social networks and subjective well-being (SWB) vary across gender and age through structural equation modeling. Data came from a nationwide survey for older adults conducted in 1999 (N=3,482). SWB was measured by life satisfaction and depressive symptoms. A three-factors model for social networks showed a good fit, consisting of child contact, informal contact with friends and neighbors, and social participation related to groups/volunteer activities. The effects of four types of networks (i.e., spouse and the three factors) on SWB were compared among the 4 gender×age groups. Gender differences were more prominent among the young-old (63-74 years old) than the old-old (75 and over), namely, the effects of being married and social participation on life satisfaction were greater for males than females, whereas informal contact was more important for female life satisfaction and depression. Among the old-old, the association between child contact and SWB was stronger than among the young-old. Further research is needed to ascertain whether the age differences result from aging and/or cohort variations.