Family Dynamics and Mental Vulnerability of Older Adults during the COVID-19 - Evidence from a National Study in China

Sep 29, 2026

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Mental vulnerability threatens older adults, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, making protective factors essential to identify. Intergenerational family ties have been linked to well-being, but their role in mental vulnerability during the pandemic remains limited. Using 2020 CHARLS data and ordered logit regression, the study examines how adult children’s gender, education, and intergenerational relationship quality affect mental vulnerability in China. Results show lower vulnerability among older adults with daughters, college-educated children, and strong ties, with subgroup differences by older adults’ gender and partner co-residence.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryResearch & Report

FormatPDF

Pages1

Reading Time3 min

AccessFree to download

Abstract

Study background

Data and methods

Key findings

Policy implications

FAQs

What is the main research focus of this study?

The study examines how family dynamics influence the mental vulnerability of older adults in China during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Which data source and statistical approach are used?

It uses the 2020 wave of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) and applies ordered logit regression models.

What protective family factors are associated with lower mental vulnerability?

Older adults with daughters, children with college degrees, and stronger intergenerational relationships show significantly lower mental vulnerability.

How do subgroup results further refine the findings?

The effects vary by the gender of older adults and are more pronounced among those living with a partner, suggesting complementarity with spousal support.

Sep 29, 2026

Upload by Connor