ABSTRACT
The situation of the Knowles family is not unusual. Like many other older couples, Mary and George have a small number of close kin but a more extensive extended family network. None of their family members lives with them, though there are strong connections among them. They have long-standing relationships with neighbors and friends in the area, though the numbers of these relationships are declining with age. Mary and George’s children are middle aged and engaged in the labor force; younger family members are beginning their employment careers. Mary’s family is concerned about her declining health and ability to manage at home.
