Journal of Transcultural Nursing
Volume 29, Issue 3, 2018, Pages 265-273

“Caught in a Generation Gap”: A Generation Perspective on Refugees Getting Old in Denmark—A Qualitative Study (Article)

Nielsen D.S.* , Minet L. , Zeraig L. , Rasmussen D.N. , Sodemann M.
  • a Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark, University College Lillebaelt, Odense, Denmark
  • b Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark, University College Lillebaelt, Odense, Denmark
  • c Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
  • d Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
  • e Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark

Abstract

Purpose: Older non-Western migrants in Europe are a vulnerable population, due to old age and multiple disadvantages related to language barriers and different understandings of care, health, and disease. Our aim was to gain a better understanding and insight into the care needs of families with refugee background Method: The study was designed as a qualitative exploration using semistructured individual interviews and family group interviews. Results: The results illustrate how vulnerability can “transmit” from one family member to another. Discrepancies between the older person’s expectations and needs and society’s expectations trap family members in ethical and moral dilemmas. This divides and stresses the family and results in difficult decision making, increased stress, and vulnerability. Conclusion and Implication: Migration and displacement can lead to ambivalent feelings among younger relatives regarding their role in caring for older relatives. Health professionals need to address and acknowledge this to be able to provide culturally congruent health care. © 2017, © The Author(s) 2017.

Author Keywords

Migrants nursing home language barriers cultural competences holistic care Refugees Family

Index Keywords

Vulnerable Populations vulnerable population communication barrier Communication Barriers refugee human Refugees middle aged Denmark Aged ethnology Intergenerational Relations procedures qualitative research human relation interview Humans psychology Empathy Interviews as Topic male female Aged, 80 and over very elderly adult
Link
https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85045443972&doi=10.1177%2f1043659617718064&partnerID=40&md5=da3eaac952cfa33f2ff5dee4354558e9
DOI: 10.1177/1043659617718064
ISSN: 10436596
Cited by: 3
Original Language: English