Abstract Summary/Description
In the context of an aging and increasingly diverse America, the health and well-being of older Asian Americans are critical yet understudied areas. Asian Americans represent the fastest-growing ethnic minority among older adults, yet face unique challenges shaped by immigration, acculturation, and systemic inequities. This study investigates the interplay between socioeconomic status (SES) and acculturation factors—familiarity with American culture, English proficiency, and length of U.S. residency—in shaping self-rated overall health, mental health, and quality of life among older Asian Americans. Using data from the 2015 Asian American Quality of Life (AAQoL) survey, this study analyzes a sample of 1,127 individuals aged 40 and older. Results highlight significant associations between SES, acculturation, and health outcomes. Higher income and education are positively linked to health measures, though their impact diminishes when acculturation factors are considered. Acculturation emerges as a robust predictor of better health outcomes, underscoring the critical role of cultural fluency and integration in navigating health systems and fostering well-being. Interaction analyses reveal complex dynamics; extended residency positively moderates the negative effect of education on quality of life, while cultural familiarity negatively moderates the positive effect of income on health. The findings illustrate the multifaceted nature of aging among older Asian Americans, shaped by intersecting structural and cultural determinants. While SES provides flexible resources such as financial stability and educational attainment, acculturation offers "fluent resources," enabling effective navigation of cultural and systemic barriers. These insights emphasize the importance of addressing both structural inequities and cultural opportunities to promote healthy aging. Future research should explore ethnic subgroup differences and qualitative narratives to deepen understanding of aging experiences in this population, contributing to more equitable health policies and interventions.
