Occupational Engagement and Health in Older South Asian Immigrants

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the elements that shape how healthy active South Asian elder immigrants engage in daily activities to maintain their health. A descriptive grounded theory approach was employed using semi-structured interviews and a daily activity chart. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 12 South Asian elders, 7 males and 5 females, who immigrated after retirement to the South San Francisco Bay area. Open, axial, and selective coding of the transcribed data led to two broad themes, control and interdependence. These themes may be viewed as dynamic and interconnected forces that shape and determine the elder's choice and orchestration of daily occupations. They are mediated by the sub-themes of social dynamics, cultural values, and health. Results indicate that well South Asian elder immigrants have a holistic and pragmatic outlook towards health, accept the constraints of their new environment and find ways to engage in healthy occupations. Their choice and engagement of occupations in turn facilitates adaptation to life in the United States. Barriers to health occur when the interdependent nature of lives and the individual control over occupational choices are out of balance or are disrupted.

Keywords:

• Elders
• Immigrants
• Occupations
• Health

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the contributions of Chris M. Kreutzer, as a member of the research team in conducting the study.