Question

describe ways that social "networks" and social "support" systems can change with age

Answer 1

Older respondends reported fewer important social contacts and less frequent communication than their middle - aged peers, largely due to fewer nonkin connections . Network size difference between older and younger respondents was greater for women than for men . These gender and age differences were explicable by much higher levels of widowhood among older women compared to younger women and older men. There was no evidence for employment - related network contraction or selective retention of emotionally supportive ties.

Social support is defined as a fundamental from the human interaction central to the human experience . At various time in peoples ' lives, individuals either seek or provide support . Social support includes interpersonal communication and interaction , love and understanding , caring and concern , affection and companionship , financial assistance , and respect and acceptance . Social support has an impact on mental and physical health throughout the life span and may be especially important later in life .