Experiences of elderly migrants in a new country

Abstract

International elderly migration is characterized by the movement of elderly people from their home countries to settle in new countries either as migrants in search of better opportunities or as refugees forced to flee as a result of unpleasant circumstances such as war. In their new countries elderly migrants face both pleasant experiences and challenges that may affect their settlement and integration in the new societies. The challenges include language difficulties, culture shock, loneliness, difficulties in accessing social and health services facilities, and inadequate support systems. Various policies in the new countries impact on the settlement outcome of this group. Upon retirement some elderly migrants remain in their new countries, others relocate back to their original countries, or live in both countries at different seasons of the year. This article explores the elderly migration experiences and the support systems that could assist the well-being of this population.