Living arrangements and social support systems of the older population in Egypt

This research examines the living arrangements and social support of older persons in Egypt. Traditionally, social support of the elderly is the responsibility of the family, and especially the children. Continuing declines in fertility and mortality levels are contributing to the rapid aging of Egypt's population, which raises questions regarding the persistence of informal arrangements. In Egypt, formal social support has not developed enough to supplant traditional types of support.; This research does not substantiate certain propositions derived from the rational choice model regarding elderly living arrangements. Unlike the preferences observed in developed countries, older Egyptians of higher economic status are more likely to coreside with married children rather than live independently. Moreover, given the preference for coresidence with children, the importance of health status on coresidence with children versus living alone is reduced dramatically in Egypt.; A review of the anthropological literature reveals that these norms and traditions are nourished by strong family ties which encourage children to support their parents. This research shows that levels of material support received including material goods and monetary transfers are dependent on educational attainment, and social class. The analysis shows that higher levels of education and social status, and urban residence decrease levels of material support for older persons. Sons are also found to be the main providers of support and their absence is not offset by daughters.; Emotional support is measured in terms of children's visits, participation in family events and having a confidant. Children's visits are not affected by older persons' attributes, supporting the proposition that the children's characteristics are more important than those of the elderly. Elderly participation in family events substantially decreases by old age and poor health, while higher levels of education and urban residence substantially increase it. Daughters emerge as important confidants for their older parents. Older persons, particularly men and persons of higher socioeconomic status, frequently participate in family decision making.; Finally, across all these issues, rural residence is associated with strong family ties that promote traditional old age support, while urban residence weakens these ties and promotes the adoption of nontraditional attitudes.