Final answer:
The correct gerontological principle related to families is that support systems for later-life families are likely to be different than those for younger age-groups due to the unique challenges and societal changes affecting elderly care.
Step-by-step explanation:
The gerontological principle related to families is that support systems are likely to be different than those of younger age-groups. This means that the ways in which older people are cared for and supported by their families may differ from how younger generations are cared for. For example, in some cultures, the responsibility for elder care lies firmly on the family, while in other cultures, government-supported institutions may be more common.
Among the options provided, the gerontological principle related to families that is accurate is that: Support systems are likely to be different than those of younger age-groups. This is because later-life families encounter unique challenges that differentiate their needs from those of younger individuals. Cultural attitudes towards aging and the role of the elderly in society vary greatly across different societies. In some cultures, there is a strong expectation for the family to care for their elderly members, while in others, there is a tendency for the elderly to be seen as independent. However, due to changes in social structures, such as more women working outside the home and the shift from agrarian to industrial economies, the traditional family-based support system has been challenged, leading to a greater reliance on community and government care. Additionally, the aging process itself prompts changes in social interaction, as addressed by theories like disengagement theory, highlighting a natural withdrawal from societal engagement as one ages.