Sibling Influence on Care Given by Children to Older Parents

Abstract

This study examines the degree to which siblings’ behaviors and characteristics influence a child’s caregiving. A sample of 186 older parents in need of care with at least two adult children reported on characteristics and caregiving of all their children ( N = 703). Multilevel regression models show that there is evidence of children’s joint caregiving efforts: The more care siblings give, the more care the child gives. Results demonstrate that the more sisters a child has, the less care that child gives. Children also substitute and support each other: The greater the number of siblings with partners and the lower the frequency of sibling emotional support exchanges with a parent, the more care the child gives. The study reflects the various outcomes of sibling solidarity when older parents become dependent.