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

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.