This chapter examines the macro view of family as a key social institution and focuses on the interpersonal aspects of family relationships and experiences across the life course. Grandparent, parent, and child generations in family systems form a clearly recognizable structure connecting individuals of various ages and cohorts. With adequate finances, health, and housing, the majority of older adults prefer to live independently of their adult children, although some may prefer to live in close proximity. There is evidence from longitudinal research that reciprocity has an influence on relationships between adults and their aging parents. Filial obligation refers to idea that children have a responsibility toward their parents, particularly in later life. Of the aging or life course topics studied from a social perspective, perhaps the largest body of research is associated with family relationships and their impact on the older individual.