Abstract
Resistance and Resilience: The Attributes of Healthy Ageing for Older West Indians Living in the United Kingdom
Danielle Ward, PhD, MPH
Antigua & Barbuda Accreditation Board, St. John's, Antigua and Barbuda
APHA's 2019 Annual Meeting and Expo (Nov. 2 - Nov. 6)
The aim was to understand how the processes of migration and associated experiences, placed within sociohistorical context, have contributed to the definition of healthy aging among West Indians growing older in the UK. Specific objectives were to explore the post-migration factors influencing the definition of healthy aging for older West Indians living in the UK and to examine how these identified factors can be used to understand perceptions of healthy aging for the aforementioned population. Utilizing critical race theory and the resilient aging concept, this study aimed to contribute to the broader literature on the understandings of healthy aging within ethnic minority communities and to inform the wider network of individuals working within these communities. This study used qualitative methodologies. One focus group and sixteen interviews were conducted with West Indians living in Bristol and Bath. NVivo was used to organize and code the data, which were then analyzed thematically. Findings showed that the participants’ post-migration experiences and construction of healthy aging can be understood by utilizing the concept of resilience, via resilient aging. Four key factors were identified that can be used to understand perceptions of healthy aging: social connections, involvement in activities, optimism and belief in a higher power. The findings of the current thesis can be used in a transformative manner by considering how various structures in society, such as an adaptive and supportive environment or public service policies, can be modified to support the needs of this group, thereby contributing to their overall resilience.
Program planning Public health or related public policy Social and behavioral sciences