The Effect of Internet-Based Programs on Late-Life Immigrant Older Widows: Socio-Cultural Adaptation, Coping, and Quality of Life

Abstract

Abstract This article reports a study examining the impact of an internet-based meditation program (IMP) on socio-cultural adaptation, coping and quality of life of South Asian older widows emigrating in later life to live with their adult children in the USA. Compared to the online informative games program (OIGP), results indicated that the IMP group exhibited greater adjustment (Cohen’s d range = 0.55 − 0.87; p ≤.01). Older widows with higher formal education, of Hindu and Buddhist religion, financially independent, having other kith-kin in the destination country, in fair health, who moved in with their daughters and to live with their adult children who stayed alone or only with partner, reported higher scores on intended outcomes. Immigrant adult child’s gender and family configuration were stronger predictors and IMP lessons attended and self-practice mediated the relationship between significant socio-demographics and outcomes. IMP is an effective intervention for older widows immigrating in late life to new family arrangements.