Attitudes of elderly Chinese toward aging: An international comparison

Little research is available on older Chinese's attitudes toward aging in modern Chinese societies. This study examined attitudes toward aging of older Chinese in Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and Taipei. Data were collected using face-to-face and telephone interviews with a mixed purposive and random sample of 1,504 aging Chinese 55 years or older. Attitudes toward aging were measured by five statements on perception toward older people. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used by examining the effects of socio-demographic variables, health variables, and geographical location. Separate analysis was conducted for each location. Socio-demographic variables like being young, high education, better financial status, and higher social support explained the largest portion of variance, followed by better physical and mental health. Participants in Hong Kong and Taipei reported a less positive attitude than participants in Guangzhou. Differences in socio-cultural environment, quality of life issues, and family life circumstance are potential reasons for geographical differences. Further research is recommended.