Impacts of acculturation on depressive symptoms and activities of daily living of U.S. older Chinese immigrants.

Abstract

Background and objectives: Acculturation is a critical aspect of social experience for immigrants, including Asian immigrants. Existing literature has shown mixed findings on the health impacts of acculturation and largely relied on cross-sectional studies, preventing drawing definitive conclusions. This study aimed to examine the long-term effects of acculturation on depressive symptoms and activities of daily living (ADL) limitations in a large sample of older Chinese immigrants in the United States.

Research design and methods: Data were drawn from 2,811 older Chinese immigrants from the Population Study of Chinese Elderly in Chicago. Acculturation was assessed at baseline, and questionnaires on depressive symptoms and ADL limitations were completed at four assessments.

Results: Overall, results showed that acculturation was not associated with depressive symptoms at baseline but was associated with a faster decline in depressive symptoms over time. No associations were found between acculturation and ADL limitations. Stratified analyses showed that the significant relationship between acculturation and a faster decline in depressive symptoms was only evident among female participants. Also, acculturation was associated with a lower risk of reporting ADL limitations at baseline in female participants but a higher risk of reporting ADL limitations in male participants.

Discussion and implications: This study indicates the long-term benefits of acculturation on mental health among older Chinese immigrants in the U.S., particularly among females. Initiatives supporting the acculturation process need to consider sex disparities and individual preferences, aiming to foster sustained benefits for healthy aging in this population.