Mental and Physical Health Impacts of Anti-Asian Violence on Chinese Older Adults.

OBJECTIVES

This study examines the mental health impacts of direct experiences with anti-Asian violence on older Chinese adults. This vulnerable and frequently targeted group is hard to access and significantly underrepresented in data collection and research.

METHODS

In collaboration with a trusted ethnic social service organization in New York City, we conducted a pen-and-paper survey at a senior center with 415 Chinese immigrants aged 60 and older in 2023. We use multivariate regressions to estimate the impact of direct experiences with anti-Asian violence on health outcomes.

RESULTS

By comparing individuals with direct and indirect experiences of anti-Asian violence, we estimated the differential mental health impact of direct trauma versus vicarious exposure. Both groups exhibited significant psychological distress, with approximately one in four among the former group and one in ten in the latter group meeting clinical treatment thresholds. Direct experiences of anti-Asian violence were significantly associated with elevated levels of stress, anxiety, depression, and PTSD, with group differences exceeding 0.4 standard deviations across all four mental health domains, even after adjusting for sociodemographic, healthcare access, and social connection factors. Social connections showed varying protective effects across groups and mental health domains. While social ties mitigated the mental health impact of anti-Asian violence, they did not protect against PTSD. Living arrangements were linked to reduced stress, and daily contact with friends was particularly effective in reducing depressive symptoms. Additionally, English proficiency was strongly associated with lower depression and anxiety symptoms. The study also examined effects on other health measures. Individuals with direct experiences of anti-Asian violence reported significantly higher odds of poor health, negative changes in health, poor memory, and memory decline.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight the profound impact of anti-Asian violence on the well-being of marginalized racial minority older adults during the pandemic, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to support their health and well-being.