Acculturation and perceived mental health need among older Asian immigrants

J Behav Health Serv Res. 2011 Oct;38(4):526-33. doi: 10.1007/s11414-011-9245-z.

Abstract

The demographic landscape of the United States is changing as the general population ages and the size of racial/ethnic minority groups grows. Most prior studies on mental health service use among Asians in America have overlooked older adults. A deeper understanding of the way acculturation factors impact help-seeking behaviors among older Asian Americans will inform behavioral health practice and program planners as they address the disparities affecting a diverse racial group. The California Health Interview Survey was used to examine the correlates of perceived mental health need among 980 older Asian immigrants. The study found that English proficiency and other covariates affected how Asian Americans perceived mental health need. Implications for understanding the help-seeking behaviors of older Asian immigrants are discussed.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Acculturation*
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Asian / psychology*
  • Asian / statistics & numerical data
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / psychology*
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Health Services Needs and Demand*
  • Health Status Disparities
  • Healthcare Disparities
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mental Health Services
  • Mental Health*
  • Middle Aged
  • United States