Immigrating after 60: Information experiences of older Chinese migrants to Australia and Canada

Abstract

While there is much research on migrant information behavior, the older population tends to be underrepresented in the literature. This article reports on a qualitative study with 16 Chinese older adults (aged 60 and over) who were recent immigrants to Australia and Canada. Migrating late in life presents some unique characteristics and challenges. In both countries, the discourse of “family reunification” frames the experiences of the participants, including their information activities as they learn to navigate the new environment. We used a parallel approach across the two countries to examine these older adults’ information practices as well as the transnational dimension of their settlement process. Findings point to a shared social imaginary as well as daily rituals and coping mechanisms of these late-life immigrants, along with associated information activities. We draw implications for our understanding of this under-studied migrant population, as well as for the design of information support for older migrants as part of their social inclusion in the host country.