Variations in Family and Community Resources Among Diverse Aging Immigrant Populations
2024

Family and Community Resources for Aging Immigrants

publication

Author Information

Author(s): Tang Fengyan, Jiang Yanping, Li Lydia

Primary Institution: Oxford University Press US

Hypothesis

The formation and characteristics of family and community resources vary among diverse aging immigrant populations.

Conclusion

Older immigrants face social isolation and health issues, and the type of family and community resources available to them significantly impacts their mental health.

Supporting Evidence

  • Five family types were identified among older Korean Americans, each associated with different levels of psychological distress.
  • Living in disadvantaged families and communities was linked to increased loneliness and mental distress.
  • Spanish-speaking Mexican American caregivers experienced greater mental distress due to lower resources.
  • Neighborhood resources and support systems play a crucial role in mitigating the negative health effects of social isolation.

Takeaway

Older immigrants need help from their families and communities to feel less lonely and healthier, and different groups have different kinds of support.

Methodology

The symposium included five studies focusing on older Korean, Mexican, and Chinese Americans, examining family types, community integration, and caregiver support.

Participant Demographics

Older Korean, Mexican, and Chinese Americans.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1564

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