“We are all spiritual beings on a human journey”: gerotranscendence and generativity in the stories of South Asian American older adults

Abstract

Although one of the fastest-growing ethnic minority groups in the US, South Asians (SA) remain underrepresented in research, public health programs, and policies. South Asian American older adults, many of whom migrate later in life to reunite with their adult children, are particularly disadvantaged given the limited availability of culturally congruent health and social care, thus often adversely affecting their ability to age well. Furthermore, recent ethnogerontological research suggests that the meanings attached to aging well may differ across cultures. This qualitative study attempts to bridge this gap in knowledge by foregrounding the stories of SA older adults and their perceptions of aging well. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with South Asian Americans 50 years and older (n = 32; 18 women; 14 men). Thematic analysis of the interview data showed that aging well for participants entailed (1) gerotranscendence, reflected in a less materialistic and more cosmic worldview, graceful acceptance of death, and an increase in altruistic behavior; and (2) generativity, wherein participants felt an obligation to preserve their role as cultural transmitters and keepers of traditional wisdom that they would pass on to the next generation. Religious faith and spiritual well-being facilitated, while communication gaps between generations acted as barriers to aging well. Increased volunteering opportunities, meaningful intergenerational engagement, and involvement in faith-based activities may enhance their subjective well-being and enable SA older adults to age well.

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