Impacts of Perceived Discrimination During the COVID-19 Pandemic on Depression Among Older Chinese Immigrants in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Abstract

Racial discrimination against Chinese immigrants to various countries worldwide has risen sharply during the COVID-19 pandemic, but limited research exists regarding the pathways through which racial discrimination impacts older immigrants' mental health. This study explored the relationship of perceived discrimination to depression among older Chinese immigrants living in Aotearoa New Zealand, through pathways of chronic health conditions, language barriers, and COVID-19 risks while taking into account the effects of anxiety and loneliness. Descriptive and regression analysis was conducted from a convenience sample of 1159 older Chinese immigrants aged between 55 and 80. While there was no significant direct effect of perceived discrimination to depression, the results showed a significant indirect effect of perceived discrimination, chronic illnesses, COVID-19 risks, and language barriers on depression, which was mediated by anxiety and loneliness. Ageing policies and interventions must address anti-racism to reduce the social and health inequalities faced by older ethnic people.