"How Does Social Capital Influence the Preferences for Aging in the Com" by Biyun Xiang

ORCID

https://orcid.org/0009-0001-8630-6865

Date of Award

Spring 2025

Language

English

Embargo Period

5-6-2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

College/School/Department

School of Social Welfare

Program

Social Welfare

First Advisor

Carmen Morano

Committee Members

Carmen Morano, Wonhyung Lee, Jinyu Liu

Keywords

Aging in the Community, Family Social Capital, Structural Social Capital, Cognitive Social Capital

Subject Categories

Social Work

Abstract

This study examines how social capital influences older adults’ preferences for aging in the community, focusing on Yuexiu District, Guangzhou. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study explores family, structural, and cognitive dimensions of social capital.

Quantitative data were collected through 439 surveys, with 400 valid responses from adults aged 60 and above. Regression analysis identified key predictors of aging-in-community preferences, including family financial support, care commitment, activities with grandchildren, community trust, mutual help, and service satisfaction.

Qualitative data from 10 interviews with community service workers revealed six themes: (1) access to services like fitness and health screenings; (2) levels of community engagement; (3) barriers such as mobility and information gaps; (4) perceived effectiveness of services; (5) the importance of social support networks; and (6) the role of empowerment and education in promoting independence.

The study’s strengths include representative sampling, multidimensional analysis of social capital, and the use of validated measures. Limitations include its cross-sectional design and focus on one urban district, limiting generalizability. The exclusion of ADLs/IADLs from deeper analysis suggests a direction for future research.

Overall, the study contributes to understanding aging preferences in urban China and offers practical implications for community planning and policy. Enhancing resource access, strengthening social networks, and empowering older adults can support effective aging in the community.

License

This work is licensed under the University at Albany Standard Author Agreement.

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Social Work Commons

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