Journal of East China Normal University (Philosoph ›› 2018, Vol. 50 ›› Issue (6): 153-162.doi: 10.16382/j.cnki.1000-5579.2018.06.018

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A Microscopic Study on Life Satisfaction of the Elderly in China: Based on Actual and Preferred Living Arrangements

YANG Zan, FANG Shuai, FAN Ying   

  • Online:2018-11-15 Published:2018-11-26

Abstract:

In recent years, with the aging of the population, the life satisfaction of Chinese elderly people as well as their actual and preferred living arrangements have attracted extensive attention. Using 2011 and 2013 of China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study(CHARLS), this paper shows that the realization of preferred living arrangements has positive effects on the life satisfaction of the elderly, no matter whether they are willing to live with their children. In addition, the elderly's relative income compared with their children and their health status are main factors that result in the unmet preferred living arrangements. Thus, in order to meet the preferred living arrangement and elevate their life satisfaction, a completed pension system shall be established and the coverage of pension fund shall be enlarged. Besides, the system for medical services and health insurance shall be improved in accordance with the elderly's special requirements for medical services.

Key words: the elderly, life satisfaction, living arrangement, preferred living arrangement