Social work with older people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds: Using research to inform practice

Abstract

This research investigated the views of older culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) people, their families and paid workers about experiences of giving and receiving care services in the Barwon region of Victoria, Australia. The project was conducted in collaboration with Diversitat, Geelong. While the research process incorporated a range of qualitative techniques this article is confined to reporting selected findings from the individual interviews and a focus group discussion. These findings demonstrated that particular caregiver personal attributes strengthened the relationship between older people and caregivers; differing interpretations were offered up about the use of time; multiple barriers for older CALD people using health and social services were identified; and that experiences of ageism within the health services were reported along with infrequent use of interpreter services. The article concludes with a discussion about the implications for social work practice and education with older CALD people.