Perception of aging and sense of well-being among Latino elderly

Abstract

This paper examines perception of aging and sense of well-being among Latino elderly. Data from in-depth interviews of 83 Latino elders show that perception of aging is influenced by the level and quality of social support, and fulfilled cultural expectations, and having strong faith in God. The above factors also seem to influence sense of emotional well-being despite physical functional capacity and chronic health conditions. The most reported concerns by all study participants are fear of loneliness and the prospect of living in nursing homes.