Patterns and Trends of Intergenerational Relationships between Older People and Children in China: 2002-2021

Abstract: Understanding the patterns of intergenerational relationships between older people and their adult children is crucial for recognizing the caregiving needs within the context of population aging in China. Based on seven waves of data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) from 2002 to 2021, comprising a total of 87,696 observations, this study employs latent class growth analysis (LCGA) to analyze the types and evolutionary trends of intergenerational relationships between the elderly and their children in China. The study identifies two distinct patterns: “semi-intimate” and “fully intimate.” Both patterns reveal close economic and emotional ties between the elderly and their children; however, they differ mainly in co-residence with children, economic independence, and receiving daily care and assistance from children, with the “semi-intimate” type exhibiting a lower degree of these aspects compared to the “fully intimate” type. Overall, approximately 65% of the elderly belong to the “fully intimate” pattern, while about 35% are classified as “semi-intimate.” Over time, the proportion of the "fully intimate" elderly is decreasing, whereas the "semi-intimate" type is increasing. Additionally, this study further employs a Hierarchical Age-Period-Cohort (HAPC) model to decompose the variations in these two patterns across age, cohort, and period. The results suggest that close emotional and economic connections are prevalent features of intergenerational relationships in China, with changes prominently reflecting an increase in the elderly’s independence. The policy implications of this study indicate that although strengthening family values is a requirement for building new-era families, relying solely on enhancing family concepts to fulfill eldercare functions is insufficient. It highlights the significant market demand for elderly care and assistance that should not be overlooked.