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Lamidi EO, Nash SP. Two Decades of Change in Living Arrangements and Health of Middle-Aged and Older Adults in the U.S., 1997-2018. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1407-1420. [PMID: 35209757 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221074685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Although living arrangements of American adults have changed significantly over the past decades, we know little about changes in the association between living arrangements and health. This study uses pooled data from 1997 to 2018 National Health Interview Survey to examine trends in living arrangements and health among middle-aged (ages 40-64) and older adults (ages 65-84). The results show that increasing share of middle-aged and older adults are living with persons other than their spouses or cohabiting partners, and this living arrangement is increasingly associated with poor health. Co-residence with persons other than spouses or cohabiting partners is particularly related to serious psychological distress among older adult women. Living alone in midlife is increasingly associated with poor health, but there has been little change in health of older adults living alone. The findings call for targeted policies and programs to address the needs of middle-aged and older adults in diverse living arrangements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther O Lamidi
- Department of Sociology, 14676University of Colorado Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | - Sue P Nash
- Department of Sociology, St. Mary's University, San Antonio, TX, USA
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Guo M, Stensland M, Li M, Dong X. Parent-Adult Child Relations of Chinese Older Immigrants in the United States: Is There an Optimal Type? J Gerontol B Psychol Sci Soc Sci 2020; 75:889-898. [PMID: 30778555 PMCID: PMC7768713 DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbz021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aims to identify (a) different types of parent-child relations among Chinese older immigrants, (b) predictors of each relation type, and (c) the most "optimal" type that is associated with better psychological well-being of the older adults. METHODS Data were derived from 3,109 Chinese elderly adults in Chicago. Latent Class Analysis was used to identify structures of parent-child relations based on eight indicators of family solidarity. Logistic regressions were used to predict the relation types. Negative binomial and logistic regressions were used to examine the associations between the relation types and depression and quality of life (QoL). RESULTS Four types of parent-child relations emerged: unobligated ambivalent (44.77%), tight-knit (40.11%), detached (10.28%), and commanding conflicted (4.84%). Older adults' age, gender, marital status, health status, and immigration/acculturation experience were related to their relation types. While tight-knit relation was associated with the fewest depressive symptoms, older adults with unobligated ambivalent relations were the least likely to report good QoL. DISCUSSION The study illustrates the diverse and complex ways in which Chinese older immigrants and their children are connected. The findings suggest that a departure from the traditional norm of filial piety may present a risk factor for this population's mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Guo
- School of Social Work, University of Iowa, Iowa City
| | | | - Mengting Li
- Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- School of Nursing, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
| | - Xinqi Dong
- School of Nursing, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, New Jersey
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Machielse J(A, van der Vaart W(W. Improving Social Quality in Housing Complexes for Older Adults: Professional Support as a Necessary Condition. JOURNAL OF AGING AND ENVIRONMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/02763893.2019.1684414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- J.E.M. (Anja) Machielse
- Department Humanism & Philosophy, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - W. (Wander) van der Vaart
- Department of Research Methodology and Theory of Sciences, University of Humanistic Studies, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Cerin E, Nathan A, Choi WK, Ngan W, Yin S, Thornton L, Barnett A. Built and social environmental factors influencing healthy behaviours in older Chinese immigrants to Australia: a qualitative study. Int J Behav Nutr Phys Act 2019; 16:116. [PMID: 31783867 PMCID: PMC6883540 DOI: 10.1186/s12966-019-0885-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Accepted: 11/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neighbourhood environments influence older adults’ health and health-enhancing behaviours, such as physical activity, eating a healthy diet and socialising. However, little is known about the effects of the neighbourhood environment on the health of older immigrants, the number of which is rapidly increasing in developed countries. Using Nominal Group Technique (NGT) sessions, this study of older Chinese immigrants to urban Melbourne, Australia, examined built and social environmental facilitators of and barriers to regular engagement in physical activity, eating a healthy diet and regular contact with other people. Methods Participants were recruited from four types of neighbourhoods stratified by walkability and proportion of Chinese dwellers. Twelve NGTs, four specific to each of physical activity, healthy diet and social contacts were conducted in Mandarin or Cantonese (91 participants). NGT responses from groups addressing the same questions were aggregated, similar items were combined, and scores combined across groups. Inductive thematic analysis was used to categorise answers into higher-order themes of factors associated with each behaviour. Results For physical activity, 29 facilitators and 28 barriers were generated with the highest ranked facilitator and barrier being “proximity to destinations” and “poor/inadequate public transport”, respectively. For healthy diet, 25 facilitators and 25 barriers were generated, the highest ranked facilitator and barrier were “high food safety standards/regulations” and “lack of family/household members’ social support for a healthy diet”. The social contacts NGTs generated 23 facilitators and 22 barriers, with the highest ranked facilitator and barrier being “proximity to destinations and activities” and “poor public transport”, respectively. Discussion Independent living arrangements and the accessibility of destinations of daily living (e.g., bilingual health services, libraries, places of worship and grocery stores / supermarkets), recreational facilities, affordable public transport, and community centres and activities for Chinese people are key elements for promoting regular engagement in physical activity, healthy eating and socialising in older Chinese immigrants. Governments should plan for the provision of this basic infrastructure of community facilities for older immigrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ester Cerin
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia. .,School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China. .,Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute, Melbourne, Australia.
| | | | - Wing Ka Choi
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Winsfred Ngan
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Science, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Shiyuan Yin
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Science, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Lukar Thornton
- School of Exercise and Nutrition Science, Deakin University, Geelong, Australia
| | - Anthony Barnett
- Mary MacKillop Institute for Health Research, Australian Catholic University, Melbourne, Australia
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Liu D, Liu A, Tu W. The Acceptance Behavior of New Media Entertainment Among Older Adults: Living Arrangement as a Mediator. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2019; 91:274-298. [PMID: 31385533 DOI: 10.1177/0091415019864602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
New media entertainment is currently being spotlighted by business practitioners and researchers. This article highlighted this issue of elder online users and explored the factors affecting their acceptance decisions in new media entertainment. Older adults prefer to status and value orientations, so their online acceptance of new media entertainment is significantly influenced by the perceived usefulness and social benefits. In addition, types of living arrangement significantly affect technology acceptance model of older adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dawei Liu
- 12626 School of Management, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Anqi Liu
- 12626 School of Management, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wanying Tu
- 12626 School of Management, Hangzhou Dianzi University, Hangzhou, P.R. China
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Guo M, Stensland M. A systematic review of correlates of depression among older Chinese and Korean immigrants: what we know and do not know. Aging Ment Health 2018; 22:1535-1547. [PMID: 29023134 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2017.1383971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Guided by the stress and coping theory, this study provides a systematic review of existing research on acculutration, family support, and social support related correlates of depression among older Chinese and Korean immigrants in the United States. METHOD A comprehensive literature search was conducted in CINAHL Plus, Abstracts in Social Gerontology, AgeLine, Social Work Abstracts, PubMed, PsychINFO, and Social Science Citation Index databases to identify relevant articles that presented multivariate analysis results. RESULTS A total of 55 articles were identified, with the vast majority focusing on older Korean immigrants. The overall evidence showed that length of residence was largely unrelated to depression, and poor Enligsh proficiency also had a weak correlation with depression. However, a low level of acculturation measured by multidimensional scales was consistently associated with more depressive symptoms. Overall, living arrangements and the size and frequency of contact of both kin and non-kin networks were weak correlates of depression. In contrast, negative family and social interactions seem to be more consequential for depression in the two groups than positive relations and support. CONCLUSION The findings show that established acculturation instruments are useful tools to identify at-risk older Chinese and Korean immigrants. Future studies need to further examine which aspects of acculturation experience are more influential for immigrants' mental health. Although often conceptualized as important coping resources, family and social networks could present significant stressors for older immigrants. Future research and services could focus on these contexts to improve the mental health of these two rapidly increasing Asian populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Guo
- a School of Social Work , University of Iowa , Iowa City , IA , USA
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Wang J, Kong D, Sun BC, Dong X. Health Services Utilization Among Chinese American Older Adults: Moderation of Social Support With Functional Limitation. J Appl Gerontol 2018; 39:481-489. [PMID: 30033843 DOI: 10.1177/0733464818787716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship of social support with hospitalizations and emergency department (ED) visits among older Chinese adults in the United States and its possible mechanism. This was a secondary analysis of data from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly (July 2011-June 2013; N = 3,157). After adjusting for demographic, clinical, and functional covariates in logistic regression analyses, significant interaction between social support from spouse and the number of functional limitations in (instrumental) activities of daily living was related to lower odds of hospitalization (odds ratio [OR] = 0.97 [0.95-0.99]) and ED visits (OR = 0.98 [0.96-0.99]). This finding suggests that among older Chinese American adults with functional limitations, more spousal support was related to lower odds of hospitalizations and ED visits. Future studies should comprehensively measure social support (e.g., content, amount) from other sources and investigate how unnecessary acute health service utilization in this population may be reduced by social support interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Dexia Kong
- University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | | | - XinQi Dong
- Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Institute for Health, Health Care Policy and Aging Research, New Brunswick, NJ
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Montayre J, Neville S, Wright-St Clair V, Holroyd E, Adams J. Late-life living and care arrangements of older Filipino New Zealanders. J Clin Nurs 2018; 28:480-488. [PMID: 30016574 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.14625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To explore the living and care arrangement plans of older Filipino immigrants in New Zealand. BACKGROUND New Zealand is rapidly becoming the host to an increasing number of ageing Filipino immigrants. Despite this sizeable population growth of ageing Filipinos in New Zealand, still very little is known about this ethnic group's care needs and living arrangement preferences in later life within the New Zealand context. DESIGN Qualitative descriptive approach. METHODS Data were collected from 15 older Filipinos who participated in face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed using a thematic analytical framework. RESULTS Two major themes were identified from the data analysis. The first theme "preferred living and care arrangements" is about older Filipinos' preferred plans for future residence and in receiving care when no longer able to function independently in their own homes. The second theme "negotiating readiness and acceptance" is about hypothetical situations that older Filipinos described and anticipated that will greatly facilitate their readiness and acceptance to living in aged care facilities. CONCLUSION The study results have implications for service delivery within the New Zealand residential aged care sector. Due to an increasing number of older Filipino immigrants requiring care, residential aged care facilities must ensure their care models meet the needs of this growing group of older people. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Nursing staff skill sets in the aged care sector require sensitivity to older immigrants' health needs without compromising cultural beliefs and practices while living in residential aged care facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jed Montayre
- School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Stephen Neville
- School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Eleanor Holroyd
- School of Clinical Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jeffery Adams
- SHORE & Whariki Research Centre, College of Health, Massey University, Auckland, New Zealand
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Roy N, Dubé R, Després C, Freitas A, Légaré F. Choosing between staying at home or moving: A systematic review of factors influencing housing decisions among frail older adults. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0189266. [PMID: 29293511 PMCID: PMC5749707 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0189266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Most older adults wish to stay at home during their late life years, but physical disabilities and cognitive impairment may force them to face a housing decision. However, they lack relevant information to make informed value-based housing decisions. Consequently, we sought to identify the sets of factors influencing the housing decision-making of older adults. Methods We performed a systematic literature search for studies evaluating any factors influencing the housing decisions among older adults over 65 years old without cognitive disabilities. Primary research from any study design reported after 1990 in a peer-reviewed journal, a book chapter or an evaluated doctoral thesis and written in English, French or Spanish were eligible. We extracted the main study characteristics, the participant characteristics and any factors reported as associated with the housing decision. We conducted a qualitative thematic analysis from the perspective of the meaning and experience of home. Results The search resulted in 660 titles (after duplicate removal) from which 86 studies were kept for analysis. One study out of five reported exclusively on frail older adults (n = 17) and two on adults over 75 years old. Overall, a total of 88 factors were identified, of which 71 seem to have an influence on the housing decision-making of older adults, although the influence of 19 of them remains uncertain due to discrepancies between research methodologies. No conclusion was made regarding 12 additional factors due to lack of evidence. Conclusion A wealth of factors were found to influence housing decisions among older adults. However, very few of them have been studied extensively. Our results highlight the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork to study the influence of a broader range of factors as a whole. These results will help older adults make the best possible housing decision based on their unique situation and values.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noémie Roy
- Interdisciplinary Research Group on Suburbs (GIRBa), Laval University, Quebec, Qc, Canada
- School of Architecture, Laval University, Quebec, Qc, Canada
- Laval University Primary Care Research Centre (CERSSPL-UL), Quebec, Qc, Canada
| | - Roxanne Dubé
- Interdisciplinary Research Group on Suburbs (GIRBa), Laval University, Quebec, Qc, Canada
- School of Architecture, Laval University, Quebec, Qc, Canada
| | - Carole Després
- Interdisciplinary Research Group on Suburbs (GIRBa), Laval University, Quebec, Qc, Canada
- School of Architecture, Laval University, Quebec, Qc, Canada
| | - Adriana Freitas
- Laval University Primary Care Research Centre (CERSSPL-UL), Quebec, Qc, Canada
| | - France Légaré
- Laval University Primary Care Research Centre (CERSSPL-UL), Quebec, Qc, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine and Emergency Medicine, Laval University, Quebec, Qc, Canada
- * E-mail:
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Meng D, Xu G, He L, Zhang M, Lin D. What determines the preference for future living arrangements of middle-aged and older people in urban China? PLoS One 2017; 12:e0180764. [PMID: 28715433 PMCID: PMC5513423 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0180764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Living arrangements are important to the elderly. However, it is common for elderly parents in urban China to not have a living situation that they consider ideal. An understanding of their preferences assists us in responding to the needs of the elderly as well as in anticipating future long-term care demands. The aim of this study is to provide a clear understanding of preferences for future living arrangements and their associated factors among middle-aged and older people in urban China. Methods Data were extracted from the CHARLS 2011–2012 national baseline survey of middle-aged and elderly people. In the 2011 wave of the CHARLS, a total of 17,708 individual participants (10,069 main respondents and 7,638 spouses) were interviewed; 2509 of the main respondents lived in urban areas. In this group, 41 people who were younger than 45 years old and 162 who had missing data in the variable “living arrangement preference” were excluded. Additionally, 42 people were excluded because they chose “other” for the variable “living arrangement preference” (which was a choice with no specific answer). Finally, a total of 2264 participants were included in our study. Results The most popular preference for future living arrangements was living close to their children in the same community/neighborhoods, followed by living with adult children. The degree of community handicapped access, number of surviving children, age, marital status, access to community-based elderly care centers and number of years lived in the same community were significantly associated with the preferences for future living arrangements among the respondents. Conclusion There is a trend towards preference for living near adult children in urban China. Additionally, age has a positive effect on preference for living close to their children. Considerations should be made in housing design and urban community development plans to fulfill older adults’ expectations. In addition, increasing the accessibility of public facilities in the residential area was important to the elderly, especially for those who preferred living in proximity to their children rather than co-residing with their children. We found that more surviving children were associated with a lower likelihood of choosing “institutionalization”, and it positively contributed to preference for intergenerational living arrangements in our study. As expected, compared with their married counterparts, people who were separated/divorced/widowed preferred living with adult children rather than living independently. A relatively shorter length of residence in the same community was an important indicator of preference for independent living; this finding might require further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dijuan Meng
- Nursing College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Guihua Xu
- Nursing College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Ling He
- Department of General Surgery, Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Jiangsu Province Hospital of TCM, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Min Zhang
- Department of Nursing, Medical College of Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Dan Lin
- Nursing College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province, China
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Social Isolation in Chinese Older Adults: Scoping Review for Age-Friendly Community Planning. Can J Aging 2017; 36:223-245. [PMID: 28412982 DOI: 10.1017/s0714980817000101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Chinese older adults may be at increased risk of social isolation and loneliness, and a fragmented understanding exists about the challenges they face for social participation in their neighbourhoods and communities. A scoping review was undertaken to describe the current knowledge on social isolation and loneliness in urban-dwelling Chinese older adults living in Western societies to inform future research, practice, and policy in Canada. Nineteen articles met the inclusion criteria. The World Health Organization's age-friendly community framework contextualized the study findings. Studies identified issues related to (1) social participation; (2) community support and health services; (3) housing; (4) community and information; (5) respect and social inclusion; (6) outdoor spaces and public buildings; (7) civic participation and employment; and (8) transportation. Social isolation and loneliness is a growing concern in this population in Canada, and additional research is needed to identify its scope and effective interventions.
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Older people's relationships with their adult children in multicultural Australia: a comparison of Australian-born people and Chinese immigrants. AGEING & SOCIETY 2016. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x16000829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTAgainst the background of population ageing and increasing cultural diversity in many Western countries, the study examined differences and similarities between Australian-born people and Chinese immigrants in their relationships with adult children. The specific research questions were: (a) are there differences between these groups in the nature of parent–child relationships; and (b) if there were differences, did these differences reflect the Confucian concept of filial piety among older Chinese immigrants. The solidarity–conflict model and the concept of ambivalence were used to quantify parent–child relationships. Data from 122 community-dwelling people aged 65 and over (60 Australian-born and 62 Chinese-born people) were collected using standardised interviews. There were significant differences between the two groups for all relationship dimensions except associative solidarity. Compared to Australian participants, Chinese participants were more likely to live with their children. However, when they did not live with their children, they lived further away. They were also more likely to receive, but less likely to provide, instrumental help. Finally, they reported higher levels of normative solidarity, conflict and ambivalence, and lower levels of affectual and consensual solidarity. The differences in solidarity dimensions persisted when socio-demographic variables were controlled for. The study revealed complex differences in the nature of older parent–child relationships between Australian-born people and Chinese immigrants. Some of these differences, such as more prevalent multigenerational living among older Chinese immigrants, likely reflect the strong influence of filial piety among this group. However, differences in other dimensions, such as lower levels of consensual solidarity, might be associated with the Chinese participants’ experience as immigrants. This study also highlights the usefulness of the solidarity–conflict model as a theoretical framework to understand the nature of parent–child relationships among older Chinese immigrants.
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Lai DWL, Leonenko WL. Correlates of Living Alone among Single Elderly Chinese Immigrants in Canada. Int J Aging Hum Dev 2016; 65:121-48. [DOI: 10.2190/ag.65.2.b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
According to traditional Chinese culture, families will care for their elderly. Therefore, it appears to be uncommon for elderly Chinese to live alone. This study examines the correlates for single elderly Chinese immigrants in Canada to live alone. Using a probability sample of single elderly Chinese immigrants ( N = 660) in seven urban centers, hierarchical logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the effects of socio-demographic resource variables, health, and cultural variables. The findings show that 39.1% of single elderly Chinese immigrants reported to be living alone. Variables related to resources, functioning capacity, and acculturation related variables are the key correlates for the elderly Chinese immigrants to maintain independence in the community. The findings imply a need to develop culturally sensitive programs to strengthen the social support, financial stability, and functioning capacity of the elderly immigrants.
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Liou CL, Shenk D. A Case Study of Exploring Older Chinese Immigrants' Social Support within a Chinese Church Community in the United States. J Cross Cult Gerontol 2016; 31:293-309. [PMID: 27294347 DOI: 10.1007/s10823-016-9292-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The number of older Chinese immigrants living in the United States is increasing steadily. They are faced with challenges to meet their needs for social support and are unlikely to turn to formal services. This case study utilizes an ecological framework to analyze social support among Chinese immigrants age 65 year and older within a Christian Chinese church community, and to explore the ways in which a Chinese church functions as the source of social support for older Chinese immigrants. Seven months of participant observation and ten face-to-face, in-depth interviews were conducted with 65+ Chinese adults who attended one Chinese church in the Southern United State and included questions concerning patterns of support and personal relationships within the church. Findings revealed that gender, living arrangements, working experiences, ability to drive, and English language skills were related to support the older Chinese immigrants sought, received, and provided. Although the Chinese church can be a viable source of supplementary support, some participants in this study felt the support they received from the church was insufficient, particularly in terms of emotional support. Therefore, suggestions are outlined that may assist Chinese churches to be more proactive in better understanding and providing services that meet the different needs and desires of older Chinese immigrants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Ling Liou
- Department of Human Development and Family Studies, Kent State University at Stark, 6000 Frank Ave. N.W, North Canton, OH, 44720, USA.
| | - Dena Shenk
- Department of Anthropology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Charlotte, NC, USA
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Da WW, Garcia A. Later Life Migration: Sociocultural Adaptation and Changes in Quality of Life at Settlement Among Recent Older Chinese Immigrants in Canada. ACTIVITIES ADAPTATION & AGING 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/01924788.2015.1063330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Parent–child relationships among older Chinese immigrants: the influence of co-residence, frequent contact, intergenerational support and sense of children's deference. AGEING & SOCIETY 2015. [DOI: 10.1017/s0144686x15000446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTImmigration disrupts the bonding process in families. Maintaining close relationships with adult children can be an important protective factor for older immigrants' health and wellbeing. Quantitative research explaining such close relationships is rare. This study examined factors associated with close parent–child relationships in a purposive sample of 236 older Chinese immigrants in Los Angeles who provided information regarding 365 children. Two-level regression models were estimated to investigate factors contributing to cohesive parent–child relationships among these older adults. The findings showed that co-residence, a characteristic that distinguishes immigrant families from most non-immigrant families, was associated with lower parent–child relationship quality. Frequent contact was associated with closer relationships. While receiving instrumental and monetary support from children was associated with favourable ratings of relationships with children, providing such support to children was not related to parents' assessment of relationship quality. Parental perceptions of children being respectful was also associated with better relationship quality ratings. Overall, the findings demonstrate how family-related changes in the immigration context shape parent–child relationships in later life. Implications for future research and practice are provided.
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Abstract
This article addresses three questions: Are elderly immigrants less likely than Canadian-born elderly people to reside independently? What are the effects of economic, cultural, and life course factors on residential independence among elderly immigrants? What are the effects of immigrant-specific characteristics such as duration of residence and cultural background? Descriptive results show that elderly immigrants are less likely to reside independently, but the large gap of over 15 per cent is reduced to 5 per cent once economic, cultural, life course, and other factors are considered in the multivariate analysis. Effects of economic, cultural, and life course factors are mostly as expected, as are those of immigrant-specific characteristics such as duration of residence. Although aging immigrants have more-varied living arrangements than their Canadian-born peers, these are likely to increasingly include residential independence.
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Lin X, Bryant C, Boldero J, Dow B. Older Chinese Immigrants’ Relationships With Their Children: A Literature Review From a Solidarity–Conflict Perspective. THE GERONTOLOGIST 2014; 55:990-1005. [DOI: 10.1093/geront/gnu004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Sereny MD, Gu D. Living arrangement concordance and its association with self-rated health among institutionalized and community-residing older adults in China. J Cross Cult Gerontol 2011; 26:239-59. [PMID: 21484315 DOI: 10.1007/s10823-011-9145-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Although many studies look at the relationship between living arrangement and health among older adults, very little research takes seniors' preferred living arrangements into account. This paper uses data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) to examine what factors are associated with concordance between actual and preferred living arrangements for both institutionalized and community-residing Chinese seniors, and to investigate associations between living arrangement concordance and self-rated health. Our analyses show that economic independence is negatively associated with living arrangement concordance among institutionalized older adults (net of other factors), while being older, female, minority ethnicity, having higher SES, and being unmarried are positively associated with living arrangement concordance among community-residing seniors. For both institutionalized and community-residing older adults, living arrangement concordance increases the likelihood of rating self-rated health as good, with concordance having a greater impact on health for institutionalized elders (odds-ratios of 1.67-1.93) than for community-residing elders (odds-ratios of 1.12).
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie D Sereny
- Department of Sociology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
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Sereny M. Living Arrangements of Older Adults in China: The Interplay Among Preferences, Realities, and Health. Res Aging 2011. [DOI: 10.1177/0164027510392387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This article uses the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey to examine the dynamics of living arrangements among the elderly in China. First, the author explores what factors are related to living arrangement preference. In addition, the author looks at a relatively unexplored measure— “living arrangement concordance”—having a match between preferred and actual living arrangements. This article also examines the relationship between concordance, self-rated health, and activities of daily living disability. Living arrangement concordance is high among community-residing elderly, but older Chinese and minority ethnicity are more likely to prefer coresidence with children, while people with higher socioeconomic status and greater family care resources are more likely to prefer living independently. This study gives evidence for person-environment fit theory—older adults with independent living concordance are more likely to have good self-rated health. Older adults who coreside with children, however, are more likely to be disabled, regardless of concordance status.
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Abstract
RÉSUMÉLa préparation pour les besoins futurs de logement des personnes âgées est impérative dans les pays avec des populations vieillissantes, mais peu est connu sur ces questions parmi les adultes plus âgés vulnérables. Cette étude a utilisé une approche qualitative pour identifier les préoccupations majeures au sujet de logement dans ce groupe. Un total de 84 personnes âgées vulnérables, y compris des personnes agées indigènes souffrant de divers handicaps et des minorités ethniques ont participé en 10 groupes de discussion. Les normes de besoins de logement de la Société canadienne d’hypothèques et de logement (SCHL) ont offert un cadre d’analyse de données de base, avec l’identification des thèmes de logement clés supplémentaires entre et au sein de groupes des personnes âgées vulnérables. Les résultats fournissent un aperçu sur les caractéristiques de logement préféré, indépendamment de la forme de logement. En outre, les résultats fournissent un aperçu de comment prendre en charge les adultes âgés vulnérables qui choisissent de rester dans leurs maisons et leurs communautés, et comment garantir que logement approprié est développé qui répond aux besoins de cette population diversifiée.
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Leung A, Chi I, Lou VWQ, Chan KS. Psychosocial risk factors associated with falls among Chinese community-dwelling older adults in Hong Kong. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2010; 18:272-281. [PMID: 20088953 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2524.2009.00900.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
This study examined the relationship between psychosocial factors and falls among community-dwelling older adults in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China. The study included 1573 adults aged 60 or above who lived at home and who were applying for long-term care services. These participants were part of a large cross-sectional survey carried out between 2003 and 2004 in which they completed the Hong Kong Chinese version of the Resident Assessment Instrument-Home Care (RAI-HC) assessment. Of those persons who were surveyed, 516 (32.8%, 95% CI 30.5% to 35.2%) had fallen in the previous 90 days. Bivariate analyses showed that five psychosocial factors (depressive symptoms, fear of falling, a decline in social activities, the number of hours of informal care support during weekdays and living alone) were significantly associated with falls (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis showed living alone (odds ratio (OR) = 0.62; 95% CI 0.44 to 0.86) was the only psychosocial factor significantly associated with falls, after adjusting for the known significant factors related to falls. It was also found that more elders who lived with others had environmental hazards than those who lived alone (71.0% vs 29.0%, chi2 = 4.80, P = 0.028). These findings suggested that living with others may not be as safe as we assume. Interventions to increase awareness of home safety and to seek co-operation with family members in falls prevention are recommended. Fall preventive strategies should be educated to family members who are living with frail older adults. On the other hand, Chinese older adults who live alone often receive support from relatives or friends. Social support seems to be crucial to prevent them from falls and this measure is recommended to be continued in the community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Leung
- Department of Nursing Studies, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Cultural Preferences and Economic Constraints: The Living Arrangements of Elderly Canadians. Can J Aging 2009; 28:303-13. [DOI: 10.1017/s0714980809990146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
RÉSUMÉUtilisant les donnés du recensement canadien de 2001, nous examinons le rôle des préférences culturelles et des contraintes économiques sur la situation domestique des personnes âgées (vivre avec son enfant et/ou une personne apparentée versus vivre de façon autonome). Nos analyses révèlent que les membres de groupes ethniques partageant des valeurs familialistes (italien, chinois, sud-asiatique, et indien d’Asie) sont plus susceptibles que leur homologues individualistes (britannique, allemand, et néerlandais) de vivre avec un proche parent. Toutefois, l’importance des préférences culturelles et des contraintes économiques dépendent en grande partie de l’état matrimonial. Pour les personnes mariées, les préférences culturelles expliquent une grande proportion de la variation des situations domestiques. Pour ce qui est des personnes célibataires, les contraintes économiques sont plus importantes. En comparaison avec les études antérieures, où celles-ci négligent le rôle de l’état matrimonial, cette recherche contribue à une compréhension plus nuancée de la situation domestique des personnes âgées.
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