Informal and formal spheres of social interaction and support by race: An analysis of interdependencies and compensations in later life.

This research examines the racial differences in informal contact and support from relatives and friends as well as the use of formal organizations and services in later life. In addition, the relationships between informal and formal interaction and support are examined. Using data from the National Health Interview's 1984 Supplement on Aging (SOA), results from logistic and multiple regression analyses show older white respondents are more likely to have contact with and receive support from kin. Black respondents were more likely to use formal organizations (especially churches) and community services for the elderly. Two-stage least squares regression was used to determine the nonrecursive relationship between the use of informal versus formal sources of contact and support. Results showed that members of both racial groups who have a high degree of contact with relatives and friends also participate in a number of voluntary organizations. Patterns of social support varied significantly by race. Blacks and whites who receive help from relatives are less likely to use formal services. However, those white elderly respondents who use formal services are less likely to receive help from their relatives. This pattern is not evident among older blacks. This suggests that older black respondents are more likely to integrate the use of formal services into their informal caregiving networks, without losing support from family members. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]