Family and Social Networks among Elderly Italians in Gippsland

Abstract

This paper examines the importance of family and social networks among elderly Italians in Gippsland in South-Eastern Australia. Support received by respondents from kin was highly valued and was most frequently provided in the areas of advice, general information, emotional problems and episodes of minor illness. The strength of these networks was based on the preservation of a cultural pattern which places a high value on the role of the extended family. Despite the widespread provision of formal community services designed to meet the needs of the aged, differences in culture and language present barriers to the use of main stream community services for the elderly. A small group was identified who were socially isolated and potentially vulnerable due to absence of kin and lack of confidence in using English.