Demographic differences in the association between social networks and self-rated health in later life

We examine the social network (SN) – self-rated health (SRH) association for groups defined by age, sex and partnership, using survey data for older Australians. Models predict fair/poor SRH vs good/very good/excellent. Explanatory variables cover 3 network dimensions (social engagement (SE)/instrumental support (IS)/emotional support (ES)), distinguishing between family-, friend- and group-based networks. Sociodemographics, disability, mental health and subjective e(x) are included. SE is not associated with SRH except in the presence of an interaction between disability and SE. Only for unpartnered is more SE(family) associated with better SRH, and this is tempered by a reversed effect at higher levels of disability. This reversed effect also occurs more widely. For the oldest group, more SE(friends) is associated with worse SRH, although this is reduced at higher levels of disability. We find a ‘beneficial’ effect of group activity for most groups. IS(family) is associated with better SRH for males and those aged 60-69 but with poorer SRH for those aged 50-59. ES(friends) is associated with better SRH for males only. IS(friends) and ES(family) are not associated with SRH. These varying associations among demographic groups has implications for strategies and policies to support health and wellbeing in later life.