Predictors of perceived support quality in visually impaired elders

Although there is a strong empirical link between support quality and health in later life, research on the predictors of support quality is lacking. Significant predictors of components of kin and non-kin perceived support quality were identified and compared in 241 visually impaired elders reporting on their closest friend and closest family member. Results revealed differential patterns of predictors for family and friend support components. Having a spouse as closest family member was associated with higher perceived affective and instrumental family support. Significant interactions for family relationship type and gender showed that for males, but not females, having a spouse as closest family member was associated with lower perceived affective and informational friendship support. participant age was positively associated with instrumental family support, but negatively associated with instrumental and affective friendship support. Overall, functional disability had a negative association with support quality. Strategies for increasing support quality are discussed.