ABSTRACT
This chapter begins by examining expectations for support, and the earlier as well as present contributions made by older people. It considers many kinds of assistance covered in the main survey: these include household tasks, transport, personal care, and financial help, asking about past and present contributions as well as support received. The study by Brody, Johnson and Fulcomer, found only weak expectations for support from other relatives, friends, and neighbours. Finally, the calculation of intergenerational exchange must take inheritances into account. Whether instrumental support is provided from within or beyond household depends largely on the demands of the particular task under question. An American study has also shown that making contributions in joint-households increases morale; the demoralisation of dependent joint-living was found to lessen as people apparently adjusted to the situation over time. Adult children, the primary beneficiaries of older people's earlier and continuing contributions, in turn are the primary providers of assistance should parents become widowed and disabled.
