On a young-elderly support system maintained in separation in urban areas.

The model of economic support for the elderly in China is moving from extended family support in cohabitation to a separation between aged and kin households. This article analyzes the nature and problems with a young-old support system based on separation of households. The breakdown in the traditional support system for the elderly is attributed to family control policy, the rapid pace of economic reforms, and modernization influences from abroad. In 1993 only 27.2% of households in Beijing comprised young or middle-aged persons living with the elderly. Today, the empty nest period lasts almost 30 years. The 1993 Beijing survey on aging found that value orientations were different between the young and the old. The greatest conflict in values was found to be over children's education. Parents preferred strict discipline, while grandparents tended to spoil grandchildren. Cross-generational differences were evident in general living arrangements, patterns of consumption, recreational activities, social exchanges, and opinions about social life. There was a stated desire to maintain privacy and live separately from parents. There was a shift in the nature of support for the elderly. Today, support tends to emphasize spiritual comfort. The aged in the 1993 survey reported the value of children as preventing solitude, having a complete family, bringing happiness, and a number of other reasons. The highest rankings favored children as a source of psychological comfort. The health of the elderly is improved, which allows for their greater independence in living. Many elderly in Beijing (77%) have a relatively stable income from pensions. Findings from a 1993 Western District survey are quoted as showing that 84.2% of young and middle-aged people are willing to provide financial support, but only 31.3% do so. The average level of support for the elderly was 33.7% of total household monthly income. Problems are identified as the financial burden on low-income young and middle-aged people, the heavy burden of household chores among those supporting the elderly, and a negative impact on study, work, and family relations from elder care. Five specific suggestions are made to overcome these problems.