Journal of Gerontological Nursing
Volume 44, Issue 11, 2018, Pages 44-50

Perceptions of mental health among Hispanic older adults: Findings among immigrants from the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Guatemala (Article)

Curtin A.J.* , Martins D.C. , Genere A.A. , Perez D.M. , Cabrera E. , Viveiros N. , Schwartz-Barcott D.
  • a College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, India, Warren Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Pawtucket, Rhode Island, United States
  • b College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, India
  • c College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, India
  • d College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, India
  • e College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, India
  • f College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, India
  • g College of Nursing, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, India

Abstract

Disparities exist in the recognition and treatment of mental health issues among Hispanic community-dwelling older adults. Previous researchers have focused on accessing mental health services, with limited attention to older Hispanic immigrants' perceptions of mental health issues. A qualitative descriptive research design was used to understand older Hispanic immigrants' perceptions of mental health issues, especially those related to stress, anxiety, and depression. Seventeen older adults from the Dominican Republic, Colombia, and Guatemala were interviewed. Despite having experienced significant personal tragedies, participants did not initially describe emotional distress or any mental health issues. When specifi cally questioned, depression was the most recognized illness. Depression was commonly described as sadness, whereas stress and anxiety had multiple defi nitions among participants. Understanding older Hispanic immigrants' perceptions of mental health issues and establishing a therapeutic relationship between the health care provider and patient may be helpful in recognizing and treating individuals who may be at high risk for emotional distress, anxiety, and depression. © 2018 Healio.

Author Keywords

[No Keywords available]

Index Keywords

Guatemala human Aged Colombia ethnology Hispanic Americans Mental Disorders Dominican Republic mental disease United States Humans migrant psychology Hispanic male Emigrants and Immigrants female Aged, 80 and over very elderly Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice attitude to health
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85055611167&doi=10.3928%2f00989134-20181010-05&partnerID=40&md5=55fc9038d4309ddc22d7163947409983
DOI: 10.3928/00989134-20181010-05
ISSN: 00989134
Original Language: English