B1752
Title: Estimating ageing kinlessness across Europe
Authors: Marta Pittavino - University of Florence (Italy) [presenting]
Bruno Arpino - University of Padua (Italy)
Elena Pirani - University of Florence (Italy)
Abstract: The prevalence of older adults aged 65 and more is estimated without close kin in 27 European countries. Using data from the survey of health, ageing and retirement in Europe (SHARE), the prevalence of lacking different types and combinations are examined of living kin, considering how kinlessness varies over time and at different ages. In 2019-2020, the prevalence of adults aged 65 and above who lacked a partner/spouse ranged between 31\% and 57\% across countries, while the prevalence of childless individuals was between 3\% and 16\%. Heterogeneity in kinlessness is investigated by country, age, education and gender. A large variation of kinlessness is detected across countries, age and education groups. This is of interest to policymakers because kinlessness is associated with poorer economic and health conditions, living alone, and unmet care needs. Ageing research should address the implications of kinlessness for public health, social isolation, and the demand for institutional care.
