Researchs on Older Adults
Perceptions of elder abuse and neglect by older Chinese immigrants in Canada
Weiguo Zhang
To cite this article: Weiguo Zhang (2019) Perceptions of elder abuse and neglect by older
Chinese immigrants in Canada, Journal of Elder Abuse & Neglect, 31:4-5, 340-362, DOI:
10.1080/08946566.2019.1652718
To link to this article: https://doi.org/10.1080/08946566.2019.1652718
ABSTRACT
This study investigates how older adults perceive elder abuse and neglect in the context of migration and ageing. Based on a qualitative study of recent Chinese older immigrants in the Greater Toronto Area in Canada, it seeks to understand how migration and ageing processes, both of which engender cultural and contextual changes, shape and reshape views of elder abuse and neglect. The study argues that culture is important in older immigrants’ perceptions of elder abuse and neglect, yet individuals with the same cultural roots may differ in their conceptualizations. Further, such perceptions could change through interactions with peers and non-peers in the host society, and these, in turn, can be influenced by both cultural and structural factors.
Fighting racism through arts: experiences in the Chinese communities in Canada
Weiguo Zhang, Chinese Age-well Research and Education, and University of Toronto
Xibo Guo, Chinese Age-well Research and Education
Yuxin Li, Chinese Age-well Research and Education
Jingjing Yi, University of Toronto
Yifei Zhu, University of Toronto
Youyou Xu, University of Toronto
Yu Bi, University of Toronto
Abstract
Our research project aims to explore how older immigrants collaborate with middle-aged and younger adults to combat racism through poetry and the potential impact of this collective action on both individuals and communities. Through a community-based participatory research approach that includes participant observations, interviews, and content analysis, we investigate the little-known practice of using arts to fight racism in Ontario's Chinese communities, which has been implemented as an anti-racism community project since February 2022. We believe that older immigrants can demonstrate resilience, creativity, and effectiveness in fighting against racism by working with people from diverse backgrounds and overcoming various cultural and structural barriers. Additionally, our project helps expand the social networks of older adults while boosting their self-esteem, self-actualization, and sense of belonging.
Poem:
With steadfast gaze, I'll keep vigil through the night,
A stalwart friend to darkness' embrace.
No force can make all Asians overseas
Shut tight their eyes, succumb to your disgrace.
My will, unyielding, shall resist the pain,
My spirit firm, unshaken by your schemes.
For though you sow the seeds of wickedness,
My faith in justice shall remain supreme.
