Contributors to social well-being from the perspective of older migrants in Australia

Abstract

This study investigates contributors to social well-being from the perspective of older migrants in Australia. Data were collected from semi-structured interviews with 33 participants in the 66–91- year age group, from Chinese, Vietnamese, Dutch, and German heritage backgrounds. At the time of the study, they were clients of a community service provider in Brisbane, Australia, and participated in the monthly social activities organised by the agency. Many of them also engaged in other social activities not organised by this agency. Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts identified three main contributors to participants’ social well-being: social integration through building strong connections with the ethnic community, social contribution through giving back to society, and social acceptance through assimilating into Australian society. However, the emphasis placed on these contributors was shaped by the participants’ age at migration, English language ability, and reasons for migration, as well as heritage cultural backgrounds. These findings highlight the need for tailored support to enhance social well-being among older people from diverse cultural backgrounds.