Ambiguous Loss and Psychological Distress: A Qualitative Study of Well-Being Among Older Migrants Living in the United States

International migration is a stressful life event that contributes to significant health disparities and well-being concerns among aging migrants living their retirement years in a host country. This study utilized a qualitative cross-sectional design employing semi-structured interviews with a diverse sample of 16 older migrants, aged 60 to 79, residing in the United States. Narratives were analyzed using thematic analysis with a reflexive approach. Three key themes emerged from the data, defining the experience of well-being and ambiguous loss: (1) The fluid nature of “Home” and belonging, reflecting profound identity-based ambiguous loss; (2) Active engagement and social connection as a foundation for well-being, highlighting structured activity as a vital coping mechanism against isolation and decline; and (3) Maintaining core identity and values, illustrating the participants’ successful selective acculturation strategies to preserve internal cultural, religious, and ethical values as a source of stability. The findings confirm that older migrants experience significant ambiguous loss centered on a disrupted sense of self and place. The study identifies active engagement and preservation of core identity as strategies for resilience and mitigating psychological distress. These results underscore the need for culturally responsive care practices that prioritize community integration, promote purposeful activity, and support the maintenance of transnational and internal cultural continuity to enhance the well-being of this growing population.