Positive Consequences of Institutionalization: Solidarity Between Elderly Parents and Their Middle-Aged Children

Open-ended interviews with institutionalized elderly parents and their middle-aged children (N = 100) question the common stereotype that institutionalization reflects a breakdown in family solidarity. The majority of respondents from both generations expressed either an improvement of or continuation of close family ties following institutionalization. The data suggest that institutional care can serve to enhance family relations, particularly when family ties have been strained by the needs of the older member.