Open AccessStructural and Cultural Factors in Successful Aging Among Older Hispanics
Author(s) -
Ronald J. Angel
Publication year - 2009
Publication title -
family and community health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.464
H-Index - 46
eISSN - 1550-5057
pISSN - 0160-6379
DOI - 10.1097/01.fch.0000342839.05607.2a
Subject(s) - gerontology , health equity , hierarchy , psychology , successful aging , life course approach , social hierarchy , social class , equity (law) , health care , developmental psychology , social psychology , medicine , political science , law
Successful or healthful aging are terms that draw attention to life course issues related to individual, physical, and psychologic development and maturation, but they also draw attention to the material basis of successful aging and the social structures that determine one's place in the social hierarchy. This article focuses on barriers to optimal aging for Hispanics, especially those of Mexican origin, and argues that cultural factors and social class are closely associated. The reduction of health disparities and equity in medical and long-term care requires an understanding of both cultural and material sources of differential health levels.