Caregiving in the Pacific Rim A Comparison of Asian and Non-Asian Caregiving Experiences

Abstract

This study compares the results of two surveys of informal caregivers conducted in California and Hawaii (N = 1677) to determine if there is a uniquely asian model of caregiving. Differences between asian and non-asian caregivers were found in the percentage of male caregivers, the impact of caregiving personally and on the family, and on employment. Furthermore, in multivariate analysis, being of asian origin retained significance in predicting both positive and negative caregiver outcomes. This study suggests that asian-american caregivers, while still respecting their cultural caregiving tradition, may be experiencing difficulties in adapting to new roles.

Applying the Dual Filial Piety Model in the United States: A Comparison of Filial Piety Between Asian Americans and Caucasian Americans

“…Similarly, Anngela-Cole and Hilton (2009) found that Caucasian Americans felt greater obligation toward their parents and had more positive attitudes toward caregiving than Japanese Americans. Further, in a sample of family caregivers, non-Asian Americans were more likely to say that caregiving has positive (personal and familial) impact on them than the Asian Americans (Arnsberger et al, 2009). Furthermore, the history of Confucian principles in the East Asian cultures and conception of joint family system in South Asian cultures impel individuals to respect, obey, and care for their elderly family members (Sung, 1995;Koyano, 1996;Singh, 2005), North Americans who do not abide to Confucian principles may be compelled to love and care for their senior parents with different motives.…”

Successful Aging

“…Further, in a sample of caregivers, Asian Americans were less likely to refer to filial values than their U.S. counterparts (Arnsberger, Chang, & Mensendiek, 2009). Elmelech (2005) examined attitudes towards family obligations and found that compared to a U.S. sample, Japanese respondents were less likely to agree that children should make sacrifices to support their parents.…”