Perceived health problems, formal/informal support, and life satisfaction among older adults.

The purpose of this study was to assess whether support from formal sources buffers the effects of stress more effectively than assistance that is provided by informal network members. Findings from a longitudinal study of older adults suggests that formal support, but not informal assistance, reduces the deleterious effects of perceived health problems on changes in life satisfaction through time. In the process of evaluating these relationships, an effort was made to match the needs created by a particular type of stress (ongoing perceived health problems) with the benefits provided by a particular type of support (illness-related instrumental support).