Transnational aging: A scoping review on the mental health and well-being of older migrant parents

Abstract

Introduction: This scoping review addresses a critical yet underresearched area in migration studies: the mental health and well-being of older parents in first-generation migrant families. It explores how these individuals navigate the complexities of transnational aging and the implications for their mental health and well-being. The study is essential in evolving global migration and demographic shifts. Methods: This review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework for scoping reviews and is reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-ScR checklist. The review extensively examined both academic and grey literature in English, without any restrictions on the publication date. A total of 8 studies were carefully selected for analysis, ensuring a broad representation of methodologies and viewpoints. Results: The review identified five primary themes that significantly impact the mental health and well-being of older parents in first-generation migrant families: (a) psychological well-being and depression, (b) social networks and family ties, (c) economic factors, (d) acculturation and cultural adaptation, and (e) policy implications and support systems. Discussion: The review underscores the necessity of a multidimensional approach that considers aging, cultural, and socioeconomic factors. When focusing on mental health and well-being, studies primarily centered on medical and chronic conditions were excluded. This selection criterion shapes the review’s outcomes, emphasizing the psychosocial and cultural dimensions over direct medical aspects. Future research could incorporate health-related studies to present a more comprehensive understanding of the transnational aging experience. In addition, further research could explore the impact of global health challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on this demographic, deepening our understanding of their unique experiences and needs in diverse sociocultural and health contexts.