Final answer:
American children provide more assistance to their parents in late adulthood, but the financial assistance predominantly flows from parents to children. Cultural attitudes towards aging and familial responsibilities influence the level of assistance provided. Different demographic groups within the United States may have differing practices and attitudes regarding assistance for late-adulthood parents.
Step-by-step explanation:
American children provide more assistance when their parents reach late adulthood, but the balance of financial assistance still flows from parents to children. While the children may offer support in terms of caregiving and emotional assistance, parents often provide the majority of financial support. This can put a strain on the relationship when adult children have to financially support their late-adulthood parents.
These differences in assistance between parents and children are influenced by cultural attitudes toward aging in different countries. For example, in Asian countries like China, the responsibility for elder care lies with the family, while in most Western countries, the elderly are considered independent and responsible for their own care.
It's important to note that demographic groups within the United States may have different attitudes and practices when it comes to providing assistance to their late-adulthood parents.