Loneliness among older ethnic minority people: exploring the role of structural disadvantage and place using a co-research methodology

Abstract

Limited research exists on the experiences of loneliness among older ethnic minority people. Yet, the ageing population is increasingly diverse and health inequalities are growing. It is therefore important to explore how older ethnic minority people experience loneliness to ensure policies meet their needs. This article examines a sample (N = 17) of semi-structured qualitative interviews with older South and East Asian people in Greater Manchester (United Kingdom). Older co-researchers conducted the interviews as part of a larger research study. The findings encompass three themes relating to: expressions of loneliness, life course disadvantage and its impact on loneliness, and the role of ageing in place on loneliness. Reported disadvantages included: a lack of employment and educational opportunities, stress related to migration, and racial and sex discrimination. The findings highlight the consequences of accumulating such disadvantages, as well as the impact of ageing in place, on later experiences of loneliness.