Older Chinese' Attitudes Toward Aging and the Relationship to Mental Health: An International Comparison

Abstract

This study examined the predictive effects of attitude toward aging on mental health of aging Chinese. Data were obtained from community surveys utilizing mixed sampling methods of 4,240 elderly Chinese 55 years or older in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Canada, and the United States. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis was used, with sociodemographic variables entered first, followed by the health variables, and then attitude toward aging. The effect of attitude toward aging on mental health was stronger than most other predictive factors. Social workers should focus on creating social/community environments that build a positive attitude toward aging.

KEYWORDS:

• attitude toward aging
• mental health
• Chinese
• Hong Kong
• Taiwan
• China
• USA
• Canada
• social determinants of mental health