Strengthening Community: Older Asian Immigrants' Contributions to New Zealand Society.

Abstract

This study sought to uncover the process through which older Chinese, Indian and Korean immigrants residing in Auckland, New Zealand contribute to, and participate in, local community. There is a paucity of literature addressing the everyday activities of older Asian immigrants living in New Zealand. The few studies that do exist focus solely on one ethnic group with little discussion of how community participation occurs. Grounded theory methodology was employed. Focus groups and individual interviews with 76 Chinese, Indian or Korean older immigrants were recorded, transcribed, translated, and analysed using grounded theory methods of dimensional analysis to develop a theory of participation. Older Asian immigrants contribute to society through a process of Strengthening Community; comprising three perspectives: Advancing Cultural Connectedness, Giving Service and Caring for Family. Each perspective is mediated by conditions and strategies that facilitate when and how participants engage in their chosen activities. Older Asian immigrants are active social contributors to New Zealand communities. Although they encounter barriers to participation, they constantly seek ways to work individually and in community groups to effectively contribute to civic society. In doing so, they take pride in giving back to their host country.