Health behavior of elderly Hispanic women: does cultural assimilation make a difference?

• DOI: 10.2105/ajph.77.10.1315
• Publication Date: 2008-11-29T13:03:17Z
• Authors: G Marks; J Solis; J L Richardson; L M Collins; L Birba; J C Hisserich
• Keywords: Acculturation; Homeland; Assimilation (phonology); Cultural assimilation

The role of cultural assimilation in Hispanic health behavior has received little empirical examination. Prior studies have operationalized primarily terms language preference and obtained weak or no effects. We interviewed 603 elderly women residing Los Angeles to evaluate the usefulness factors as predictors preventive (e.g., physical examination, screening for breast cancer) more rigorously. Factor analysis responses yielded four dimensions assimilation: "language preference", "country birth", "contact with homeland", "attitudes about children's friends." After controlling education age, dimension associated strongly consistently behavior. Of dimensions, use English most closely increased screening, although effects were small magnitude. These findings, coupled those other studies, suggest that may impact on Hispanics. Access availability services, affective reactions toward sociodemographic are stronger determinants practices.