Intergenerational support and self-rated health among older Chinese immigrants: Do depressive symptoms play a mediating role?

ABSTRACT It is particularly important to consider the psychological pathways between intergenerational support and health in the context of immigration, as individuals are often subject to interrupted or lost social ties and consequently increased vulnerabilities to stress, feelings of loneliness and depression. This study investigated the relationship between intergenerational support and self-rated health among older Chinese immigrants; and whether and to what extent depressive symptoms mediate the relationship between such support and health. Data came from a regional study using purposive sampling of 236 older Chinese immigrants in the United States. Path analysis was used to study direct and indirect effects (mediation) from intergenerational support to health. Receipt of personal care was directly associated with better self-rated health. Depressive symptoms mediated the relationship between emotional support and self-rated health. Besides strengthening and encouraging personal care and emotional support from adult children, interventions need to address depressive symptoms to promote optimal health.