Immigrant older adults’ health and social support in Canada: a comparative analysis of Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging data

As people get older, they experience changes in aspects of their life and health that can lead to social isolation. Older people who immigrate to Canada are at a greater risk of social isolation because of migration-related changes. This study focuses on: 1) changes in older immigrants’ personal profile and ability to do usual daily activities, to socialize with family and friends, and to take part in community activities over time, and 2) how these changes affect their social isolation, and overall perceived health and healthy aging. The analysis will be undertaken with all older immigrants to Canada, as well as with sub-groups of immigrants, or those settling in urban/suburban vs. rural settings. The results will help identify factors that contribute most to the sense of isolation among older immigrants, which will support designing strategies or services to help older immigrants stay connected and healthy.