Homophily and Health Behavior in Social Networks of Older Adults

Jason D. Flatt · Yll Agimi · Steven M. Albert

64 citations0/0 files storedFamily & Community Health

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Health disparities and outcomes Aging and Gerontology Research Health and Wellbeing Research

Abstract

A common network phenomenon, homophily, involves developing relationships with others who are similar to you. The intent of this study was to determine if older adults' health behaviors were shared within social networks. We interviewed older adults from low-income senior housing (egos) on egocentric social network characteristics and key health behaviors for themselves and for named social ties (alters). Findings suggest strong effects for homophily, especially for those who smoked and were physically inactive. Public health interventions for older adults should consider the influence that social relationships have on personal health behaviors. Network-based interventions may be required.

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References

2001Social Ties and Mental Health 2008Social Networks and Health 2010Social Relationships and Health Behavior Across the Life Course 2008The Social Connectedness of Older Adults: A National Profile 1987Social Networks in Adult Life and a Preliminary Examination of the Convoy Model 2007Social Network Types Among Older Adults: A Multidimensional Approach 2005Social Networks Among Men and Women: The Effects of Age and Socioeconomic Status 2005Behavioral determinants of healthy aging1

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2021Best Practices for Modeling Egocentric Social Network Data and Health Outcomes 2022Social Networks and Health Inequalities 2015Health implications of social networks for children living in public housing 2022Investigation of Age-Associated Cognitive Functional Homophily in Community-Dwelling Older Adults’ Confidant Social Networks Using Exponential Random Graph Model 2023Social Development in Midlife and Older Age: How Social Roles and Relations Shape Personal Growth

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