Personal Network Bridging Potential Across Geographic Context

Abstract

Objectives: Personal networks play a fundamental role in the daily lives of older adults. Although many studies examine how life course factors and personal preferences shape network formation, fewer consider how the places in which older adults live present opportunities and obstacles to cultivate social relationships. In the present study, we explore how geographic context is associated with the ability to bridge social ties within one's personal network.

Methods: We use data from the Person-to-Person Health Interview Survey (N = 709), a representative sample of Indiana residents. Personal network data were collected using 4 name-generating prompts. Logistic regression models and linear regression models were used to assess 2 measures of network bridging.

Results: A minority of respondents reported the ability to bridge ties within their networks. Respondents residing in rural and mixed counties were less likely than urban respondents to have at least one member of their network who was completely disconnected from all other members.

Discussion: These findings suggest that the communities in which older adults live condition opportunities for accessing unique network resources. Additional research adopting a network perspective is needed to provide insight into geographic disparities occurring among the older population.

Keywords: Geography; Social networks; Sociology.