Guide to the Utilization of Family and Community Support Systems by Pacific/Asian Elderly

摘要

The document provides information on how elderly Pacific/Asians use informal family and community support systems. The nature and functions of informal support systems for five Pacific/Asian ethnic groups are discussed: Chinese, Indochinese, Japanese, Korean, and Philipino. The historical and cultural backgrounds of these ethnic groups are discussed. Attention is focused on the roles and responsibilities of the family in the care of the elderly, on informal community supports, and on the interaction of family and community systems. Self-help groups and organizations that are based in the community and that provide support to the elderly are explained. Further, the impact of the historical/cultural experience on the elderly is summarized and problems unique to specific ethnic groups are identified. The need for methods for maintaining the elderly in the family is identified and immigration policies that support the reunification of the family are recommended. Finally, the need for research to be conducted to delineate the informal network and support system is emphasized.