The demographic landscape of the United States is changing as the general population ages and the size of racial/ethnic minority groups grows. Most prior studies on mental health service use among Asians in America have overlooked older adults. A deeper understanding of the way acculturation factors impact help-seeking behaviors among older Asian Americans will inform behavioral health practice and program planners as they address the disparities affecting a diverse racial group. The California Health Interview Survey was used to examine the correlates of perceived mental health need among 980 older Asian immigrants. The study found that English proficiency and other covariates affected how Asian Americans perceived mental health need. Implications for understanding the help-seeking behaviors of older Asian immigrants are discussed. © 2011 National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare.

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mental health service psychological aspect health disparity Health Status Disparities mental health human middle aged statistics health service Aged Mental Health Services Health Services Needs and Demand United States Humans Asian Americans male Emigrants and Immigrants Acculturation Aged, 80 and over female Asian American cultural factor Article migration Healthcare Disparities health care disparity