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Article
Occupational Engagement and Health in Older South Asian Immigrants
Journal of Occupational Science (2013)
  • Sheama R. Krishnagiri, San Jose State University
  • Erin Fuller, San Jose State University
  • Lesley Ruda, San Jose State University
  • Sadhna Diwan, San Jose State University
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the elements that shape how healthy active South Asian elder immigrants engage in daily activities to maintain their health. A descriptive grounded theory approach was employed using semi-structured interviews and a daily activity chart. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 12 South Asian elders, 7 males and 5 females, who immigrated after retirement to the South San Francisco Bay area. Open, axial, and selective coding of the transcribed data led to two broad themes, control and interdependence. These themes may be viewed as dynamic and interconnected forces that shape and determine the elder's choice and orchestration of daily occupations. They are mediated by the sub-themes of social dynamics, cultural values, and health. Results indicate that well South Asian elder immigrants have a holistic and pragmatic outlook towards health, accept the constraints of their new environment and find ways to engage in healthy occupations. Their choice and engagement of occupations in turn facilitates adaptation to life in the United States. Barriers to health occur when the interdependent nature of lives and the individual control over occupational choices are out of balance or are disrupted.
Disciplines
Publication Date
2013
DOI
10.1080/14427591.2012.735614
Publisher Statement
This is an Accepted Manuscript of an article published by Taylor & Francis in Journal of Occupational Science on 19 Oct 2012, available online: http://www.tandfonline.com/10.1080/14427591.2012.735614.

Citation Information
Sheama R. Krishnagiri, Erin Fuller, Lesley Ruda and Sadhna Diwan. "Occupational Engagement and Health in Older South Asian Immigrants" Journal of Occupational Science Vol. 20 Iss. 1 (2013) p. 87 - 102 ISSN: 1442-7591
Available at: http://works.bepress.com/sadhna_diwan/1/