Health-seeking behavior in older immigrants: a concept analysis

ABSTRACT

The migration of older people is increasing globally. Older immigrants face numerous health challenges that necessitate seeking healthcare in their new country and have historically encountered various difficulties in doing so. Therefore, it is crucial to define the concept of health-seeking behavior for the older immigrant population. Walker and Avant’s (2019) concept analysis was used for the procedural framework. Critical attributes of the concept were related to existing barriers, social networks, sociocultural beliefs, individual characteristics, and multiple approaches. Antecedents were defined as being in older age, migrating to another country or region, and presenting physical/mental/psychosocial needs to seek health. The consequences can be – positive: increasing quality of life and improvement in mental/physical health – or negative: worsening physical and mental health, decreasing quality of life, unmet health needs, ignoring symptoms, delays, and limitations in receiving healthcare services, isolation, and avoiding or taking unnecessary action regarding health-seeking behaviors. Policymakers and healthcare providers should raise awareness among older immigrants, their families, and friends, that take into account the antecedents, attributes, and consequences. This approach aims to enhance the adoption of appropriate methods for seeking health within this population. Health-seeking behavior among older immigrants is defined as a concept characterized by multiple pathways, barriers to healthcare, social support, individual characteristics, and sociocultural beliefs that impact health-seeking within this population.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).