Spiritual affection and support: Unique aging model of older adult Chinese who lost their only child

Yuanxiong Tang, Qianru Xu and Robert Guang Tian ()
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Yuanxiong Tang: Lanzhou University
Qianru Xu: University of Malaya
Robert Guang Tian: Huaihua University

Palgrave Communications, 2024, vol. 11, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract This research aims to explore the mechanism of the online “spiritual solidarity” group for older adults who have lost their only child (shidu parents) in contemporary China. By examining a unique aging model of older adult Chinese who lost their only child, this study conducted an online survey in the “spiritual solidarity” group of the shidu parents through an ethnographic approach by interviews, questionnaires, participatory observation, and other methods. The findings can improve the “spiritually drawn together to old” process for the shidu parents to improve their quality of life and relieve their psychological stress. As a new pension model, the spiritual group takes a virtual information platform as the carrier to break through the limitations of regional activities, meet the various needs of the shidu parent, and provide them with an outlet for emotional energy. Understanding the mechanism of spiritual solidarity is of help to the shidu parents in obtaining spiritual comfort. It is also valuable for safeguarding their rights and interests to improve their quality of life on the spiritual and material levels.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1057/s41599-024-02798-9

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