[Age of migrant workers: ethnic resources and double disadvantage]

As a result of migrant-movement in Western Europe increasing numbers of aged people of foreign origin are being registered. In the FRG a large number of these are migrant workers. Initial reports confirm the same observations made in the USA that in old age an increased withdrawal into ethnic enclaves takes place. An additional phenomenon observed in the Europe study population is the desire to return to their native country among the aged immigrants. A return however, is usually not realized. This creates a dilemma which often characterizes the situation of older migrant workers. The specifics of the ageing process and the age situation of ethnic old people can only be researched in a synthesis of migration and gerontological research. Findings from both fields must be analyzed in order to develop adequate provisions in help-for-the-aged program dedicated to this specific aged population.