Caregiving and older Japanese adults: lessons learned from the periodical literature

Abstract

The United States is on the threshold of a substantial growth of older adults that increasingly reflects the cultural diversity inherent in this nation. Culture shapes the experience of aging and caregiving, and thus becomes an important factor when considering social services for older adults. One culturally distinct minority group--Japanese--is reputed to have one of the longest life expectancies in the US population, and, thus, information about their experiences may expand knowledge on aging and culture. A periodical literature review of older Japanese adults was undertaken to assess lessons learned about the association of aging and culture. Two important lessons that emerged emphasized the influence of cultural values on family caregiving, and women as caregivers. Implications for practice with this population are drawn and broad directions for the profession of social work are provided.