Intergenerational Relationships and Depressive Symptoms among Older Adults: The Moderating Role of Unmet Home- and Community-based Care Needs

Yuanyuan Fu (), Xiachun Ke () and Yuyan Li ()
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Yuanyuan Fu: Beijing Normal University
Xiachun Ke: Beijing Normal University
Yuyan Li: Beijing Normal University

Applied Research in Quality of Life, 2025, vol. 20, issue 4, No 15, 1703-1730

Abstract: Abstract This study explores the association between intergenerational relationships and depressive symptoms among older adults, with a particular focus on the moderating effect of unmet home- and community-based care (HCBC) needs. We first applied latent class analysis to categorize the unmet HCBC needs of older adults into three distinct patterns. We used these patterns as moderators to examine the effects of intergenerational relationships on depressive symptoms, focusing on the dimensions of solidarity, conflict, and ambivalence. Our results indicate that intergenerational solidarity significantly lowers depressive symptoms, whereas intergenerational conflict and intergenerational ambivalence intensify these symptoms. The influence of these intergenerational dynamics on depressive symptoms was moderated by the identified patterns of unmet HCBC needs. These results not only increase the understanding of the complex interplay between intergenerational relationships and psychological well-being but also highlight the need for effective policy and interventions that address both intergenerational dynamics and HCBC needs to improve the psychological well-being of older adults.

Keywords: Intergenerational relationships; Depressive symptoms; Home- and community-based care services; Unmet needs; Latent class analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s11482-025-10493-3

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