Abstract:

Cultural gerontology studies the experience of aging among members of particular ethnic minority groups. One of the greatest gaps in current knowledge relates to the subjective health status & use of health services among elderly ethnic minorities, particularly those who are Jewish. Data reported here are from a survey of respondents (Rs) ages 65-85 in City & Hackney, London, of whom 16% were Jewish. They show that Jewish respondents are more likely than other elderly to report problems with emotional well-being, with mental & physical health, & with functional abilities. Jewish respondents are also more likely to use services, particularly health services, than other respondents. These associations with service use generally remain after health status is controlled.