Intergenerational Contacts During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Personal or Electronic?

The paper investigates intergenerational associational solidarity in the specific context of COVID-19 pandemic and associated first lockdown in Europe. Adult children are often a source of support for older parents, especially in countries with a weak welfare state. On the other hand, older persons are the most vulnerable in front of the new virus and restrictions specifically addressed reducing personal contacts for older people. Our aim is to see how the recommendations for physical distancing combined with the need for different forms of support. More specifically, we investigate whether electronic contacts with non- coresident children could substitute personal contacts when there is need for support and care. Our investigation on data from SHARE Corona Survey from eight European countries show that a worsening health status or lack of opportunities for digital connections translate into face-to-face rather than electronic intergenerational contact and support. Results differ by country group, as an expression of different intergenerational relations regimes, with responsibilities for vulnerable older persons placed mainly on family or on the state.