Why do older adults living alone in cities cease seeking assistance? A qualitative study in China

• DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03217-x
• Publication Date: 2022-06-29T05:03:12Z
• Authors: Qianqian Du; Ni Gong; Qin Hu; Guicheng Chen; Jingyue Xie; Lan Luo; Yu Cheng; Meifen Zhang
• Keywords: Independence; Independent living

Abstract Background Against the background of an aging population, older adults living alone in cities are increasingly dependent. However, their use home and community-based services China is unsatisfactory. This study attempted to figure out why do not actively seek assistance China. Methods In-depth interviews were conducted. A total 29 recruited. Content analysis was used analyze interview data. Results Three themes identified. (1) Desire for independence, despite hardship: The lives involve many inconveniences, but they preferred solve problems by themselves, instead asking help; (2) overburden jiaren (meaning family Chinese): did want disturb families or burden children with caring responsibilities. Moreover, previous experience failing obtain care made them reluctant help from jiaren; (3) bother wairen people other than lack trust caused being unfamiliar wairen, fear a others if able reciprocate, wairen. Conclusions Changes social, economic, demographic structures have led gradual failure care. Older accustomed “acquaintance society” yet adapted seeking community. When addressing problem cities, it important focus on profound impact social change.