The association between acculturation and health practices among middle-aged and elderly Latinas

Abstract

Objectives: To examine the relationship between acculturation and five health practices, including cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise, obesity, and sleeping habits.

Methods: The study sample consisted of 573 Latinas, aged 46 to 92 years. Participants were recruited from 17 publicly subsidized housing projects in Los Angeles, Calif. Health practices information was obtained through an interview.

Results: Regression analyses showed an interaction between age and acculturation: the effects of acculturation on health practices were stronger among Latinas aged 64 years and under than among their 65 to 74 year-old counterparts. Level of acculturation did not affect the likelihood of engaging in healthy practices for elderly women (aged 75 and over).

Conclusions: The data indicate that acculturation negatively affects the health practices of middle-aged Latinas, who are at a particularly critical age during which chronic diseases emerge. Intervention programs are needed to encourage adoption of healthy practices, particularly exercise and weight control, at an earlier stage in life.