Support Networks of Childless Older People in Europe

Western societies age rapidly. Today, people do not only live longer, they also have less children. These developments exert considerable pressure on pension and health systems. Children are the most important source of support in old age, especially when there is no partner. Older parents also transfer significant amounts of money to them. In times of rising childlessness we thus face new challenges: On which support networks do childless older people rely? (How) can the lack of children be compensated? Who provides help and care? Who profits from financial resources of the elderly?

We assess the support networks the childless aged 50 and over in 14 European countries based on SHARE focusing the importance of the extended family as well as public services. Our analyses show that financial transfers are diminished considerably and private help is often taken over by the extended family and neighbours. Intense care tasks, however, are mostly provided by public providers. The family and especially intergenerational relations play an important role for support in old age. When there are no children, vital support for older persons has to be taken over by public providers in many cases. In countries with low service provision, childless older people thus experience a lack of help, especially when depending on vital care.