Disability and living arrangements among older immigrants in the US: evidence from the American Community Survey

The demographic composition of the US older adult population as individuals who are immigrants continues to rise.

Using data from the American Community Survey, this study examines trends, health status, and living arrangements among U.S.-born and immigrant older adults.

The share of immigrants who are older adults increased from 10% in 2001 to over 15% in 2023, with Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), Asia, and Africa driving much of this growth. We found significant differences in health and living arrangements across regions of birth. Immigrants from LAC reported fewer health difficulties. Immigrants from other origins have comparable health difficulties as the native-born. Immigrants from Africa and Asia were less likely to reside in nursing homes but more likely to live with offspring. Native-born older adults with independent living difficulties were disproportionately more likely to reside in group quarters.

These findings underscore the importance of accounting for heterogeneity in the ageing immigrant population and addressing their growing presence's cultural, economic, and policy implications.