Aging, social relationships, and health among older immigrants

Close to 13 percent of the U.S. population is foreign-born, and about 12 percent of the immigrant population are ages 65 and older. Traditionally, the health of immigrants, especially those from developing countries, has benefitted from improved living conditions in their destination country, but as years go by immigrants' health can deteriorate. Social relationships through neighborhood connections, religious involvement, family and friends are key to helping immigrants acclimate and remain healthy. It's important for practitioners to understand vulnerability to disease and disability in late life by assessing the daily lives and social relationships of older immigrants.