Why Don’t I See One Asian Person at My Local Nursing Home?

Prioritizing Family Care in the Context of Cultural Values in Elder Care

Many Asian cultures prioritize filial piety, which plays a central role in cultural values in elder care and emphasizes respect and care for one’s parents and elders. This sense of duty often translates into multigenerational living arrangements, where elderly family members live with their children or grandchildren rather than in nursing homes. Aging parents are seen as integral members of the household, and caring for them is viewed not only as a responsibility but as a source of honor and respect.

Preference for Aging at Home

In addition to cultural expectations, cultural values in elder care foster a widespread belief among Asian families that elders thrive better in familiar environments. Being surrounded by loved ones and in a setting they’ve known for years contributes to their emotional and mental well-being. This preference aligns with the concept of “aging in place,” which is gaining popularity globally but has long been a tradition in many Asian households.

Family-based elder care also enables customization to meet the unique needs of the elderly. From dietary preferences rooted in traditional cuisines to cultural practices and languages, home care allows families to maintain these connections. Nursing homes may not always accommodate these specific needs, making them less appealing options for many Asian families.

Financial and Practical Considerations

In some cases, financial factors play a role in the decision to care for elders at home. The cost of nursing homes can be prohibitively high, and for families with strong intergenerational ties, pooling resources to support an elder at home might be a more feasible option. Additionally, the idea of hiring a caregiver to assist at home is more acceptable than institutionalizing care, as it allows families to stay actively involved in day-to-day life.

Evolving Trends in Elder Care

However, times are changing, and so are elder care practices in Asian communities. Younger generations adopting Western lifestyles, pursuing distant careers, and navigating modern challenges make family-based care harder to sustain. In urban areas, where nuclear families are more common, the reliance on nursing homes or professional caregivers is increasing.

Still, this shift is gradual and varies by region, socioeconomic status, and individual family circumstances. Even as nursing homes become more common, the number of Asian residents might remain lower compared to other demographics due to lingering cultural preferences and stigmas.

Building Culturally Inclusive Elder Care Facilities

For nursing homes aiming to diversify their resident populations, addressing cultural barriers is essential. Facilities can focus on incorporating cultural values in elder care into their models, such as providing traditional meals, hiring multilingual staff, and fostering an environment that respects diverse customs. By doing so, they may appeal to Asian families who might otherwise hesitate to consider institutional care.