An Asian American Community Intergenerational Response to Older Adult Isolation and Loneliness

The increased number of Asian Americans in the southern region of the United States has led to concerns about isolation among older adults. Using the case study methodology, the study aimed to examine the development and implementation of ethnic intergenerational programs as an example of an Asian American community response to needs. Themes identified are 1) programs in response to community-identified need; 2) program development for target populations; 3) program successes of shared learning and social connections; and 4) program challenges of barriers and expansion. Study findings have potential for programmatic and community responses to address isolation of older Asian Americans. Ethnic-specific programs such as the ones examined in this study may be more community driven and centered, culturally appropriate, and effective than one-size-fits-all approaches.