This article focuses on social networks of old people in the urban communities. It describes differences among social networks in terms of their urban structure, attitudes of the old residents, quality of life, and the characteristics of the old residents. In doing this, the study is based on the results of the two social surveys. As such it provides a detailed understanding of differences in the structure and composition of urban old networks.
Generally, people use both the neighborhood and the wider community to meet their needs. However, for some groups of old people the neighborhood is much more important than it is for others. Many old people are more dependent upon their neighborhood than other urban residents.
The correlation analysis shows that local networks are related statistically to neighborhood satisfaction and life satisfaction.
Finally, from a policy perspective, the results discussed argue in favor of policies designed to strengthen the community structure of urban neighborhoods. This is particularly important for old neighborhoods because the old residents are more place-bound and have fewer options outside of neighborhoods to meet their needs.