Social network support adds life to years : elderly in Belgrade, Yugoslavia

Abstract

With demographic tendency of aging population in all regions of the world, in Yugoslavia as well, the question of successful aging, social and health well being in old age are becoming main concern in the modern gerontology. There is well proved evidence that a high level of quality of life in old age is commonly associated with the ability to live in natural social environment. Further, that includes social integration versus social isolation, participating in social activities versus social passivity, functional exchanges in social interrelations, having a social acceptable role according to the age and capacity. Social network support is considered as important determinant of quality of life in old age. It is defined as the network of relatives, friends and informal organisations that provide both emotional and instrumental support. Literature review elaborates actual and practical importance of the social network support to the elderly, based on theoretical explanation of its structure and function. Support is described in a psycho-sociological sense and refers to a cognitive, emotional and service giving provided by the network's members. Historical perspective and cultural diversity are important aspects in explanation structure and function of the system of social network support. Yugoslav experience shows that social network support is in the process of transition from traditional to the modern pattern of care. Traditional pattern of care, where family and close kin have main responsibility in care for the elderly, has still predominance. However, decline in social network support to the elderly is occurring, and this tendency is more significant in big urban areas. Epidemiological data (Belgrade) show that absence of social network support leads to the poor psychosocial well being of the elderly and place them at high risk of institutionalisation. In general, social network support should be at the heart of the policy planning of aging. Furthermore, the intervention of the society should enhance the possibilities of network's members, first, family, to provide a greater social support to the elderly.