Exploring Cultural Similarity and Cultural Diversity: A Cross-National Study of Nine Countries

Abstract

Population aging is a universal, global issue with each country facing its own challenges to ensure the health of its older persons. We examined information gathered from 363 participants residing in nine societies (Japan, Saudi Arabia, China, Thailand, Botswana, Tunisia, U.S., South Africa, and Italy) about issues related to their self-reported aging experience. Using face-to-face interview and survey methods, information from older adults suggests evidence for both cultural similarity and diversity for these aging older adults. There is uniformity within the countries we studied in older adults’ dislike of health changes and the experiencing financial concerns. Data collected also provides support for noticeable elements of diversity with regard to aging in each country and that divergent paths in aging exist. Findings point to recognition for cultural humility, recognizing the lack of knowledge for specific aging practices within individual societies, and a push toward cultural competence where more data is required to understand the true experiences within a group.