Work

Comparing the Health Status of Immigrant and New Zealand-Born Older Adults in Aotearoa New Zealand: The Role of Socioeconomic Position

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: ObjectivesThe study investigated the health status of older migrants relative to their New Zealand-born peers. We adopted a holistic view of health (physical, mental, and social) and a structural approach to health disparities based on migrant status and socioeconomic position.MethodsUsing case-control matching based on age, gender, and education, the health status of 357 older migrants and 357 New Zealand-born older adults was compared.ResultsOlder migrants reported significantly poorer social health. Health inequities were patterned by socioeconomic status. Working class older migrants had significantly poorer physical, mental, and social health than their New Zealand-born peers. Inequities in social wellbeing persisted even at the upper end of the social gradient.DiscussionMigrant background is an important social determinant of health in older age. The reduced social wellbeing of economically advantaged migrants highlights vulnerabilities regardless of socioeconomic position and the need for targeted social policies.

Source: Journal of Aging and Health

DOI: 10.1177/08982643241276268

Authors: Ágnes Szabó, Rachel E. Goodin

Institution: Victoria University of Wellington

Language: English

Topic: Migration, Health and Trauma

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,200