Long‐term trajectories of intergenerational coresidence: Evidence of living arrangements patterns in Chile.

Abstract:

Objective: This study examines long‐term trajectories of
intergenerational coresidence (IC) among a cohort of individuals aged 65 and
75 in Chile, focusing on their diversity, prevalence, internal dynamism, and
sociodemographic characteristics. Background: IC is comparatively high in
Latin America and is related to both family norms and social vulnerabilities.
However, empirical evidence on this topic comes mostly from cross‐sectional
studies using aggregated population data, which neglect the inherently
dynamic nature of coresidential arrangements across the life course. Method:
We use representative life‐history data in Santiago, Chile (N = 802),
sequence analysis to reconstruct long‐term trajectories, and bivariate
analysis to examine their associations with sociodemographic factors.
Results: Our findings show that, first, IC in Chile may be more prevalent and
diverse than suggested in previous cross‐sectional studies. Second, our
findings indicate patterns of long‐term IC and stable conjugal cohabitation
are compatible. Third, the results shed new light on the association of IC
with particular sociodemographic groups. Conclusion: This study analyzed
patterns of living arrangements among family members based both on
intergenerational and conjugal cohabitation and their dynamic character
throughout the life course. Our results challenge interpretations of
contemporary living arrangements among family members at an international
level. Implications: This study shows that IC in Chile has been largely
underrepresented, both in magnitude and heterogeneity. This finding informs
public policies about the reality of family configurations that require
specific care, housing, and financial support.